Description This pair of English silver plated owl candlesticks by Robert and Belk are modelled as standing owls supporting tulip form candle cups raised above their heads. Produced in Sheffield during the late nineteenth to early twentieth century, the candlesticks reflect the strong Victorian interest in naturalistic animal forms combined with inventive novelty silver design. Each candlestick features a finely cast owl with detailed feathered plumage and inset amber glass eyes, grasping a coiled snake held within the beak which rises upward to support the candle socket above. The candle cups are formed in a tulip shape and retain removable bobeche inserts designed to protect the surface beneath from wax drips. The owls stand upon polished domed bases finished with moulded borders and decorative chain detailing, providing both visual balance and stability to the design. The combination of sculptural modelling and functional form demonstrates the quality associated with Robert and Belk, one of Sheffield’s established manufacturers of silver and electroplated wares during the late Victorian and Edwardian period. Both candlesticks are marked to the base with the Robert and Belk trademark alongside Sheffield EP marks denoting electro plate manufacture. Animal form candlesticks of this type were produced for decorative domestic interiors and remain highly sought after today for their character, scale, and strong presence within both traditional and contemporary settings. View the full Silver Collection. MEASUREMENTS 20cm High x 10.5cm Diameter (7.9 x 4.1 Inches) CONDITION Very Good antique condition Who were Robert and Belk? Robert and Belk was one of Sheffield’s established silver and electroplate manufacturers, with origins tracing back to 1810 when the firm first registered as plate workers at the Sheffield Assay Office. Through a series of partnerships including William Briggs, Samuel Roberts, and Charles Belk, the company evolved into Roberts and Belk in 1863, becoming well known for producing high quality silver and silver plated wares during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Operating from Furnival Street in Sheffield with additional London showrooms in Holborn, the firm supplied both domestic and export markets before becoming Roberts and Belk Ltd in 1901. Their work remains recognised today for detailed casting and strong Victorian and Edwardian decorative design. What is Silver plate? Silver plate, more accurately known as electroplated silver, is a process in which a thin layer of silver is bonded onto a base metal, most commonly copper, nickel silver, or brass, using an electrical current. Developed during the early 19th century, electroplating allowed manufacturers to produce objects with the appearance and durability of solid silver at a more accessible cost. By the Victorian period, silver plated wares became widely used for both domestic and decorative purposes, particularly in tableware, candlesticks, and ornamental objects. Well made examples were produced using heavy plating and carefully cast components, giving a finish closely comparable in appearance to solid silver while remaining practical for regular use. WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.
