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Paschal Candlestick — Anonymous, 16th century

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Written by: Derya TunaResearcher · Old Master Paintings
Old Master Paintings · Catalogue no. 17487
Anonymous, 16th century

Paschal Candlestick

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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In Roman Catholic practice, a large candlestick holds the Paschal Candle, blessed and lit for the first time on Easter eve, then used on significant occasions throughout the year. Despite its religious function, the decorations here are entirely secular-ranging from panthers and bound satyrs to the heads of raptors and goats. These elements derive from ancient Roman sculpture and were especially popular among intellectuals in northern Italy, who were actively exploring connections among pagan traditions, ancient philosophy, and Christianity.

Artist / MakerAnonymous, 16th century
Datec. 1525–1550
Culture / OriginNorthern Italy, possibly Padua, 16th century
Mediumbronze
DimensionsOverall: 123.2 x 41 x 44 cm (48 1/2 x 16 1/8 x 17 5/16 in.)
DepartmentEuropean Painting and Sculpture
TypeSculpture
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Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

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