A complete set of figural candlesticks depicting the four seasons

As allegories of the seasons, this four-tiered composition features pedestals with rocaille-style relief ornamentation, with striking spiral forms ascending and partially adorned with grapevine candlesticks, culminating in vase-shaped scrolls above drip pans with leaf reliefs. Standing flowers in colorful white robes hold a bouquet in both hands, symbolizing spring. Ceres, representing summer, is dressed in a white cloak decorated with Native American flowers, holding a sheaf of wheat and a sickle. Bacchus, with a bunch of grapes, depicts autumn. A bearded old man, in the guise of winter, warms his hands by a blazing fire, dressed in a fur-trimmed purple cloak. Each of the four figures is accompanied by a boy with corresponding attributes. Polychrome painting with rich gold decoration. Possibly executed by Johann Joachim Kändler and possibly by Peter Reinicke. Some parts are missing or minimally restored. Some cracks and sword marks. Height 29 cm - 31 cm. Candlesticks of this type were often used as table decorations at festive events. See Ayers, James A. The De Rothschild Collection, No. 35; Walcha, Fig. 130; Rückert, Fig. 716f. A complete set of figural candlesticks depicting the four seasons. Minor restorations. Slight cracks in some places. Crossed swords mark. Meissen. Mid-18th century.