Complete set of figurative candlesticks depicting the four seasons

As an allegory of the seasons, this four-tiered composition features pedestals with rocaille-style relief decoration, striking spiral forms ascending and partially adorned with grapevine candlesticks, topped by vase-shaped scrolls above drip pans with leaf reliefs. Standing figures in colorful white garments hold bouquets of flowers in both hands, symbolizing spring. Ceres, representing summer, is clad 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, embodying winter, warms his hands by a blazing fire, dressed in a fur-trimmed, purple-colored mantle. 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 kind 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 figurative candlesticks depicting the four seasons. Minor restorations. There are minor cracks in some places. Mark with crossed swords. Meissen. Mid-18th century.