From the 14th until the 17th centuries, brass candlesticks appeared in all but the most prosperous houses, and were made in forms particular to the material. Socketed candlesticks made their appearance in the late 13th century and thereafter became relatively common, replacing the earlier pricket form, at least for domestic use.

This Venetian candlestick dates from about the early 17th century and is one of a pair. It has a bell shaped base and the stem supports a moulded socket and a wide circular drip pan. The surface is finely engraved with Bacchanalian scenes incorporating foliage, amorini, grotesques and a cartouche framing the figure of Bacchus and baskets of flowers.