Cherub Candleholder Value Guide
- Period
- 1950-1970
- Origin
- Italy
- Materials
- Ceramic, Plaster
- Category
- Cherub decor
These mid-century Italian cherub candleholders capture the whimsical Neoclassical aesthetic that became a staple of 1950s-1970s home decor. Crafted from ceramic or plaster, these pieces draw inspiration from Renaissance putti to serve as both functional candleholders and elegant small planters.
What affects the value of Cherub Candleholder?
- The presence of an original 'Made in Italy' foil label or clear manufacturer's mark significantly increases collector interest.
- Condition is critical, as the delicate wings and fingers of plaster cherubs are highly prone to chipping and paint loss.
- The intricacy of the hand-painted details, particularly in the facial features and hair, affects the final market price.
- Market demand typically places the value between $55 and $65 for examples in excellent vintage condition.
How to Identify Cherub Candleholder?
- Look for 'Italy' or 'Made in Italy' stamps or incised marks on the base of the ceramic or plaster pedestal.
- Examine the figure for the characteristic soft, rounded features and playful expressions typical of mid-20th-century Italian craftsmanship.
- Check the top pedestal bowl for wax residue or soil staining, which indicates its historical use as a candleholder or planter.
- Identify the material by weight and surface texture; ceramic examples will have a glazed finish, while plaster versions often feature matte paint.
History of Cherub Candleholder
Cherubs, often depicted as putti, have been a popular motif in art and decorative objects since the Renaissance. Their playful and angelic imagery symbolized love, innocence, and heavenly bliss. During the Neoclassical period and into the 20th century, cherub figures remained a favored theme, adorning everything from elaborate furniture to smaller decorative pieces like this candleholder, bringing a touch of classical elegance and whimsy to homes.
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