The Dolphin Candlesticks are found in seven distinct types. The single base usually has two scars near the hollow base of the Dolphin showing the earliest form of ejection from the mold, a kind of modified pontil. The single base Dolphins while not as delicate in modelling and design are decidedly earlier and much rarer than the double base. The head of the Dolphin is hollow for a greater distance than in the double base sticks showing that these earlier forms were blown into the molds before the stamp machine was in common use. There is also a sunken bobash of glass not found in the double base types. Type 6 and 7 is mentioned by the author with reluctance as it is of Victorian origin. The little pentagonal base stick type 5 is dainty and well molded but the bell shaped Dolphin is ornate and of less value to collectors. The dishes on Dolphin standards with opalescent edges are of this period also and mentioned only to make this work complete. Type 1. single base 1840
Type 3. double base 1850
Type 4. round base 1859
Type 5. Pentagon base small stick.
Type 7. Milk white opaque glass measurement eight inch small Dolphin on round base with 16 scallops. 1875 Illustration 8 page 68 is a very remarkable clear white Dolphin dish on standard. It measures 9 by 10½ inches. There is a full size Dolphin, early type, with hollow head supporting a balanced shell. The piece is unique. Illustration No. 9 page 70 is so far as the author knows, the only lamp which has been found with a single Dolphin base. It is of clear white glass and is a beautiful piece. A—Lamp supported by three Dolphins—late. Illustration 10 page 68 is one of the later Dolphin dishes referred to at the head of this group. Plate XIX |