Oh how I love this! Hand built of earthenware/terra cotta, this candlestick was decorated with with a white slip and colorful paints and dyes, then varnished, which gives it a nice shine. How charming I think she is, plus these little balls extending on wire from her arms and base! While unsigned, this piece is very much in the manner of the work of famous father and son Mexican folk artists Aurelio and Francisco Flores from Izúcar de Matamoros--legendary for their elaborate "tree of life" candlesticks and candleabra. I have seen a very very close match (same overall design, same base design, same balls on wires) attributed to Francisco and dated to the 1970s, but am not 100% certain of that attribution. Regardless, a rare and tremendously charming piece with a fantastic presence; just great!
8 1/2" tall x 3 3/4" wide x 3 1/2" deep. There is some cracking to the paint on the base, as documented, and this candlestick has definitely been used; I have removed a little wax and there is some blackening to the interior/around the rim of the candleholder just visible on the back side (see photos.) But it is in overall good condition, structurally sound, no cracks that I can see, and with many good years ahead!
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