Pair of Antique Baroque Continental Candlesticks. 

Size (both): 5 1/2 X 5 1/2 X 21 in. (without candles) 

#7127 . 

The term “continental” when used in the context of decorative arts and objects typically refers to pieces whose origins are from the European continent but lack specific attribution to a particular country or region. This designation is often used in art history, museums, auctions, and the antiques trade to categorize and describe items, and particularly implies that the object is of European origin with the exclusion of the British Isles. Certain descriptors can be added to help better categorize it, such as the era or style (Baroque, Rococo, Modern, etc.) and directional features (Eastern meaning Russia, Poland, and so forth, and Western meaning places like France and Germany). The uncertainty of an items exact origins might arise due to the lack of distinctive stylistic or manufacturing features that can be conclusively attributed to a specific region or due to the absence of maker’s marks, signatures, or other identifying information. From the 18th Century onward the rapid innovations in economic systems and trade led to many styles being copied, sometimes broadly or outright in totality, meaning the same exact item could be made in numerous countries, sometimes in opposition to the prevailing primary style of that place and time. As a general rule, two key terms help delineate these items the most: “vintage,” referring to any item likely manufactured in the last century or so, and “antique,” referring to anything made before that time.

Some pieces are loose.