Sconce

Art Historical Context

This elegant sconce, crafted in 17th-century Britain by an unknown artisan, exemplifies the refined metalwork of the period. Standing at just 6 5/8 inches (16.8 cm) high, it was designed as a wall-mounted fixture to hold candles, illuminating grand homes or public spaces with both practical light and decorative flair. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's of European Sculpture and Decor Arts—thanks to the generous gift of Irwin Untermyer in1964—this brass piece reflects the era's growing emphasis on luxurious household objects amid England's Restoration period. The medium of enamel on br...