Candlesticks with supports in the form of an eagle were produced in a variety of countries over a wide period of time. Examples can be found from France, Russia and, unsurprisingly, America and while the styles can vary there are often quite strong similarities. But they were made in England as well and the material used here in addition to the engine turned decoration suggests that this was the source of this particular pair, the decoration suggesting the late nineteenth or early twentieth century. Some of the eagle supports have a snake in addition, as here, and there may be the intention of indicating the symbolism of good over evil, or the aim was simply to add decorative detail. There do not seem to be any exact parallels for this pair but the quality of the work, with its detailed casting and decorative highlights, indicates a maker of some skill. The result is striking.