A full set of figurine candlesticks depicting the four seasons.

As allegories of the seasons, this four-tiered composition features pedestals with rocaille-style relief ornamentation, featuring striking spiral forms that rise and are partially adorned with grapevine-shaped candlesticks, culminating in vase-shaped scrolls above drip pans with leaf reliefs. Standing figures in floral white robes hold bouquets of flowers in both hands, symbolizing spring. Ceres, representing summer, is dressed in a white cloak decorated with Native American floral motifs, 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, clad in a fur-trimmed, purple-hued 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 Peter Reinicke. Some parts are missing or minimally restored. Some cracks and traces of swords. Height 29 cm – 31 cm. Candlesticks of this kind were often used as table decorations for festive occasions. Cf. 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. Some minor cracks in places. Marked with crossed swords. Meissen. Mid-18th century.