One of a pair of Egyptian 'sphinx' candlesticks

William Bullock (English, 1773–1849)

about 1810

Medium/TechniquePatinated bronze, marble

DimensionsOverall: 50.8 x 38.7 cm (20 x 15 1/4 in.)

Credit LineGift of Horace Wood Brock

Accession number2010.1046.2

On View

On view

ClassificationsMetalwork

Collections

Europe

InscriptionsThe sides of the candlestick are engraved with fictitious hieroglyphics and the sides of the bases are engraved "OEDIPUS EXPOUNDED HER RIDDLE" & "SHE THEN DESTROYED HERSELF." The third side of the base is engraved "OEDIPUS EXPOUNDED HER RIDDLE" in reverse so that when reflected in a mirror, it can be read correctly.

ProvenanceAbout 1810, William Bullock, London. Jeremy Ltd., London; by 2004, sold by Jeremy, Ltd., to Hotspur Ltd., London. By 2009, acquired on the London art market by Horace Wood Brock, New York; 2010, year-end gift of Horace Wood Brock to the MFA. (Accession Date: January 26, 2011)