Antique Silver Branches
These antique silver branches light dining tables and walls through branching arms formed in sterling silver, silver plate and Old Sheffield plate.
Antique Silver Branches
Antique silver branches encompass multi-light candelabra, wall lights, chandeliers and wall sconces spanning the Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian periods.
The selections on this page focus heavily on silver plated and sterling silver candelabra, alongside wall sconces and chandeliers originating from English, French and Continental makers.
Buyers will encounter pairs and suites of three to six branch lighting fixtures designed for formal dining rooms and drawing rooms.
What varies in quality
Quality separates through the crispness of chased and embossed ornamentation on the branching arms and the structural weight of the metal.
Maker attribution and complete matching suites of multiple candelabra elevate pieces far above standard single table lights.
The preservation of original silver plating over copper or base metal dictates the overall standard of the finished object.
Object forms on this page include multi-light candelabra, wall sconces, chandeliers, walking sticks and ceramic or glass jars.
Hawksworth Eyre·Garrard and Co·Matthew Boulton·G R Collis
The Antique Silver Branches Glossary
- Candelabra
- A large branched candlestick holding multiple candles. These multi-light fixtures often feature detachable sconces and central stems.
- Old Sheffield Plate
- A method of fusing a thin sheet of silver to a copper ingot by heat and pressure. This technique creates a durable layered metal seen on Georgian pieces.
- Silver Plate
- A thin coating of silver deposited onto a base metal such as copper, brass or nickel silver. The process became widespread during the Victorian era.
- Wall Sconce
- A candle holder or light fixture fixed to a wall. These fixtures direct illumination across hallways and reception rooms.
- Sterling Silver
- An alloy of silver containing ninety-two point five percent silver and seven point five percent other metals, usually copper. It bears official hallmarks denoting assay office and date.
Antique Silver Branches: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I identify Old Sheffield plate?
Old Sheffield plate involves fusing silver to a copper base, which sometimes reveals thin lines of copper wear along high edges where the underlying metal shows through.
Later silver plate uses a white base metal or nickel silver, meaning worn spots appear silver grey rather than copper red.
Can these candelabra hold standard modern candles?
Many antique candelabra accommodate standard dinner candles, though sizing varies depending on the specific period and manufacturing origin. Sconces and drip pans are often detachable to assist with cleaning.
Some pieces were engineered for specific candle diameters or proprietary glass inserts, so checking the nozzle dimensions is recommended for daily use.
How do I care for silver plated branches?
Clean silver plated and sterling silver branches gently using a soft cloth and dedicated silver polish designed to protect delicate plating. Avoid abrasive cleaners that strip thin layers of silver.
Display the pieces away from direct heat sources and damp environments to maintain the metal finish and prevent tarnish accumulation.