A Pair of Monumental Gilt-Copper (Tombak) Candlesticks, Turkey, 16th century

each of truncated waisted conical form with a large splayed foot and a tall, ridged, cylindrical neck rising to a tapering candleholder

Both in general good condition, both with three drill holes to upper rim and one on shoulder, one with small dent and puncture, the other with small scratch and dent, as viewed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

These magnificent and monumental candlesticks are of a type frequently seen flanking the mihrab of a significant Ottoman monument. Similar pairs of tombak candlesticks, also of the sixteenth century are found before the mihrabs of the mosques of Rustem Pasa and Sokollu Mehmed Pasa. A pair closely related in shape are in the turbe of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent and another were exhibited in London and now in the Nasser D. Khalili Collection (Allan and Raby 1982, p.46, no.33). The plain style seems to be in keeping with the purpose and setting of the pieces.