1992.5.FA, Candelabrum for the Sulkowsky Service, 1736, Johann Joachim Kandler, modeler, porcelain, Meissen Porcelain Factory, Meissen Germany

This breathtaking feat of ceramic design, monumental in the history of open porcelain, is credited to sculptor Johann Joachim Käendler, a master modeler at Meissen Porcelain Factory from 1733 to his death in 1775. Originally, it was one of a group of twelve identical candelabra, part of the celebrated Sulkowsky Service, as indicated by the coats of arms of both Sulkowsky and his wife, Marie Anne Franziska von Stain (1712-1741). Count Alexander Josef Sulkowsky (1695-1762) first became familiar with fine porcelain in his role as overseer of porcelain deliveries to the Japanese Palace in Potsdam. When he commissioned the service from Meissen in 1736, it was the first large-scale private armorial service ever designed to order.

 

The candelabra of the Sulkowsky Service are exceptional for their scale and complexity. Modeling dominates, with enameling and giltwork added only for embellishment. The elaborate draped figure sits on a stepped base with putti supporting rococo shields, each bearing coats of arms. The figure grasps a cornucopia, symbolizing nature's bounty, and holds luxuriant branches that end in candle cups. Touches of giltwork emphasize the object's brilliant white color and sense of movement over its surface. The service so impressed other German nobles that they quickly ordered similar personalized sets. Other examples of this model were made for Count Johann Christian von Henicke (c. 1738) and for Prince Joseph Wenzel of Liechtenstein (c. 1737-40). The mate to this particular example, the only other known in the United States, is at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Until 1992: Collection of David T. Owsley, New York, New York

From 1992: Dallas Museum of Art, purchased from the above Foundation for the Arts [1]

[1] See invoice in Collections Records Object File 1992.5.FA. The Foundation for the Arts is a non-profit corporation created as a title-holding entity to serve the people of Dallas but to operate independently of the City. The Dallas Museum of Art (at its own cost) is responsible for the care, storage, insurance, conservation and maintenance of the collection, and agrees to maintain the highest museum standards in the management and handling of the Foundation's collection. The title to all works of art purchased or otherwise acquired by the Foundation for the Arts is retained by the Foundation.

MET museum~See the mate to this particular example, the only other known in the United States.

Apply to objects where number equals 1992.5.FA