Vietnamese Pair of Liturgical Candle Sticks

Two altar sentinels, a little chipped, thoroughly dignified.

French Colonial craftsmen in French Indochina (present day Vietnam), Southeast Asia, made this pair of liturgical candlesticks in lacquer in the early 20th century. Candlesticks of this type were commonly made for church altars in the colonial period. Each rises from a three-footed base carved with leafy panels to a twisted, fluted shaft and a flat drip dish. The surfaces carry worn red, gilt and dark tones, with the paint rubbed back along the edges and the feet.

Each about 18 inches tall. Set them on a mantel and the room suddenly has a congregation.