Pair of Russian Brass Candlesticks, Tula, 19th Century

A pair of antique candlesticks in solid brass on cast bronze bases, most likely made in Tula in the later nineteenth century. Tula was the center of the premier brass and bronze metalwork manufactories of the Russian Empire, and the site of the imperial armory founded under Peter the Great (r. 1682–1725).

Each stands 7¼ inches (18 cm) high; together they weigh 2 lbs 12 oz (1.25 kg), the heft of solid, cast work rather than spun sheet.

The finish is age-appropriate, with the darkened surface that brass acquires over a century and a half. It can be hand polished should a brighter shine be wanted.