Three-Candle Polished Black Candlestick [SOLD]

This is a late nineteenth or very early twentieth century polished black candlestick for three candles. Candlestick production probably originated when the Franciscans requested them for use in the churches. They could have started as early as the late 1500s, but probably originated much later. At first, candlesticks brought from Spain were used, but eventually were replaced by pottery ones created by pueblo potters.

Normal wear from age is evident, but there is no damage. It actually is in excellent condition.

COMMENTS: Some experts have contended that smothering pottery during the firing process creates a carbon smoke that penetrates the pottery, turning it black. Even though several books describing black pueblo pottery attribute the color change to carbon, the reduction of iron oxide is the correct mechanism. Ceramicists, describing ancient styles of Old World pottery, state that iron impurities in clay form red oxide at red heat, but if air is lacking during firing, iron impurities in clay form black magnetite.