- 136
A pair of American three-light figural candelabra, Schulz & Fischer, San Francisco, circa 1867
Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- marked on bases with maker's mark, COIN, and S.F. CAL.
- silver
- height 15½ in.
- 39.4 cm
the circular satin-finish bases with bright-cut foliage and monogram NSI, the fully-modeled figural stem supports the detachable top with acanthus-capped scroll branches
Condition
both with tops pushed down slightly on one side, the sconces with some dings and minor dents- one with splitting along seam at top, please note there are no drip pans included, overall good condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
William Schulz and Emil Fischer were silversmiths in San Francisco employed by Friedrich Reichel until they established their own firm in 1867. They manufactured their own flatware and holloware, as well as finished wares from other makers. In 1875, they changed from the "coin" to the "sterling" standard. Schulz & Fischer exhibited at the Fairs, winning praising for their “satin finish.” After the death of Schulz in 1890, the business closed and Shreve & Co. acquired a number of their flatware dies.
These candlesticks were almost certainly manufactured by Gorham & Co. The same classical female figure is used as a stem on a fruit stand marked for Gorham Mfg. Co. and attributed to the designer George Wilkinson (illus. Charles Venable, Silver in America, 1840-1940, 1994, fig. 3.18, p. 63). The fruit stand was designed in 1866, which indicates that Schulz & Fischer likely acquired this pair of candelabra from Gorham around the same time, as they would have wanted to stock their newly established business 💯with impressive pieces of silver.