Bronze Caldwell Sconce with Lattice Frame Shade

From the Remains Archive. Available by private inquiry.

A single-light sconce by the New York maker E. F. Caldwell in its original darkened bronze finish, having a delicate frame for bent glass or mica panels. The cast bronze shade is a notable example of the highly technical castings that Caldwell accomplished in their workshops: thin members separated by large openings with repeated fidelity to dimensions are extraordinarily difficult to make. Additionally, the craftsman managed to drill and tap tiny (think wristwatch size) screws on the interior to hold the glass retaining tabs. Lastly, the arm and backplate on this fixture hints at a curious relation between Caldwell and their chief competition The Sterling Bronze Company. Identical arms and backplates show up on the Sterling Bronze Company's work. Whether this is the result of some overt collaboration or the movement of craftsmen between the companies is an area for further research.

Historical works from the Archive are reproduced selectively through the Remains workshop, with pricing and lead times determined according to the scope and complexity of the original work.