458
A pair of 19th century English travelling candlesticks, "Brighton buns”
Estimate
500 - 800
Session 2
16 December 2025
Hammer Price
Register to access this information.Description
Gilt silver, fineness .925
Of detachable form, each composed of two circular bases and a central stem, the elements screwing together to create a compact travelling set
With London hallmarks for 1890–91 and maker’s mark “T.W.”, possibly for Thomas Whitehouse
(minor signs of use)
Height: 4,5 cm
Diam.: 8 cm
92,5 g
Category
Silver
Additional Information
Developed in the late 18th century to provide portable lighting, the so-called Brighton buns are distinguished by a clever construction in which two bases and two stems screw together to form a small, compact case that can be carried easily in luggage or in a coat pocket. The name, recorded from the 19th century onwards, refers to the resemblance of the closed set to the round sweet buns sold in the bakeries of Brighton.
Popular with travellers and particularly favoured by military officers on campaign for their sturdiness and portability, these candlesticks were produced in brass, bronze and silver, with documented manufacture until the mid-19th century. Silver examples continued to be made later in the century with more streamlined forms. Today they are sought after as practical and inventive objects that reflect the culture of travel in their period.
Closed Auction
