England, London, Chelsea / c. 1775
Candelabrum Depicting an Allegorical Figure of Matrimony
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Candelabrum Depicting an Allegorical Figure of Matrimony as ceramic (England, London, Chelsea · c. 1775).
The canopy of foliage surrounding these figures was inspired by the arbors popular in theatrical stage designs during the mid-1700s.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this ceramic as soft-paste porcelain and credits Derby Porcelain Factory (Chelsea-Derby Period, 1770–84).
The museum's collection notes: This allegorical figure depicts a shepherdess dressed in richly patterned garments. Here the figure (Matrimony) holds a birdcage in one hand and subtly directs the viewer’s gaze toward the sheep resting nearby with the other. An accompanying figure, a shepherd (Liberty) is joined by a dog and a bird that perches on his outstretched arm.
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtCandelabrum Depicting an Allegorical Figure of MatrimonyOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.