Art Deco Faux Tortoiseshell Candlesticks Pair c1920s Amber Candle Holders

A superb matching pair of early 20th-century faux tortoiseshell candlesticks, with wonderfully rich amber and dark mottled colouring.

These are particularly attractive examples, standing 14.5 cm tall with elegant faceted stems, broad stepped circular bases and shaped candle sockets.

One of their most striking features is the translucency of the material. When illuminated or held towards natural light, the deep tortoiseshell colouring transforms into glowing shades of amber, honey and caramel, revealing considerable depth within the mottled pattern.

The elegant form and construction are consistent with early 20th-century decorative wares, and I believe these most likely date to approximately the 1920s–1930s.

They appear to be made from an early synthetic material designed to imitate natural tortoiseshell. As the precise composition has not been scientifically tested, they are conservatively described as faux tortoiseshell rather than attributing them to a particular early plastic.

Measurements:

* Height: 14.5 cm
* Base diameter: 9 cm
* Candle opening: approximately 2.5 cm
* Sold as a matching pair

They are in very good vintage condition, particularly considering their age. Please examine all photographs closely for condition and the natural variations within the material.

A beautiful and increasingly difficult-to-find pair with considerable decorative presence, equally attractive displayed with or without candles.