A Rare Pair of "Estofado" Polychrome Candelabras by Edward N. Riddle Co., 1914
£950.00
A stunning and historically documented pair of American antique candelabras, manufactured in 1914 by the prestigious Edward N. Riddle Co. of Toledo, Ohio. These pieces represent the company's early mastery of the "Estofado" style, which combined bold polychrome pigments with metallic frames to create an opulent, Spanish-revival aesthetic.
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A Rare Pair of "Estofado" Polychrome Candelabras by Edward N. Riddle Co., 1914
A stunning and historically documented pair of American antique candelabras, manufactured in 1914 by the prestigious Edward N. Riddle Co. of Toledo, Ohio. These pieces represent the company's early mastery of the "Estofado" style, which combined bold polychrome pigments with metallic frames to create an opulent, Spanish-revival aesthetic.
Key Features:
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Authentic Pedigree: These candelabras retain remnants of their original 1914 patent sticker on the underside, a detail highly prized by collectors of American lighting history.
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Expert Restoration: Although previously drilled for electrical use, they have been meticulously restored to their original function. They are now ready for traditional wax candles, providing an authentic "pre-electric" ambiance.
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The Estofado Finish: A signature Riddle technique where primary colors are applied to metal frames to simulate an aged, multi-tonal antique effect. The vibrant reds, golds, and teals remain remarkably crisp.
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Versatile "Fitments": Marketed by Riddle as high-quality "fitments," these were designed to be sculptural anchors for a mantelpiece, sideboard, or grand dining table.
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Provenance: Sourced from the era when Riddle expanded from their Ohio roots to a luxury showroom on Fifth Avenue, New York, catering to the elite of the Gilded Age.
Date: 1914
Origin: American (Toledo, Ohio)
Maker: The Edward N. Riddle Company, Toledo, Ohio. They also had a showroom on Fifth Avenue, New York.
The Edward N Riddle Lighting Company of Toledo, Ohio, self-described as "Designers and Makers of Metal Lamps, Vellumesque Shades, Gift Novelties, and Lighting Fixtures," hit its stride in light manufacturing in the 1920s, though they have been around since 1892. One of their popular products was "estofado" frames, a Spanish-inspired method of applying primary colours to virgin metals for an antique effect. Additionally, the company called their products "fitments" in advertisements to convince customers they would be easy to install and uninstall to fit their design preferences over the years. Regardless of the validity of that claim, they were certainly well-sought after for the quality of their fitments.
Condition Report
These candelabras are in excellent antique condition, showcasing minimal signs of wear consistent with their age and history.
The estofado polychrome finish retains its vibrant colours and intricate patterns. There are minor areas of wear, but they do not significantly detract from the overall appearance. The finish adds a touch of opulence to the candelabras.
Measurement
Height:Â 46 cm / 18.11 inches
Width:Â Â 38 cm / 14.96 inches
Depth:Â Â 20 cm / 7.86 inches
Weight:Â 2.75 kg (each)
