Sconce

Title:

Wood and Brass Candle Sconces

Object Name:

Sconce

Creator:

Unknown

Date:

1850-1900

Material:

Wood, brass, wax

Dimensions:

H-4.75 L-21 Dia-7 inches
The sconces come in a set of two.

Description:

A set of (two) wood and brass candle sconces painted gold with the Gilman family crest (black leg). Candle holders are brass and the plate is wood. Each sconce has a wax candle.

Provenance:

The Gilman Family crest, pictured on the sconces, does not depict a black boot, but rather a black leg. Most believe that the black leg originates with the legend of a Welsh knight named Cilmin. Cilmin befriended a necromancer, who convinced him to attempt to gain possession of a powerful "mystic" book that was in the hands of a demon. The necromancer warned Cilmin, however, that he must not touch the black river that was the border of the demon's territory. After bravely capturing the book from the demon in a gallant battle, Cilmin successfully escaped to the river. As his horse lay exhausted and dying, Cilmin tried to jump the span, but unfortunately slipped and his leg went into the water. From then on, the knight's leg became black and he was lame to his dying day.

Subjects:

Sconces, Light fixtures, Lighting, Household equipment, Household goods, Heraldry

People:

Gilman

Place of Origin:

Unknown

Collection Name:

Society of the Cincinnati in the State of New Hampshire

Item Number:

2012.014.1.2

Accession Number:

2012.014.1.2

Type of Material:

Objects

Copyright Statement:

For information regarding copyright, permissions, and reproductions contact the American Independence Museum

Credit Line:

American Independence Museum

Participating Organization:

American Independence Museum