The reed cluster stems and floral acanthus scroll bases of these candelabra reflect the early 19th century enthusiasm for naturalistic ornament encouraged by works such as those of J C Loudon, who was the editor of The Gardener's Magazine, 1826-1848, and The Encyclopedia of Cottage, Farm and Villa Architecture and Furniture, 1833, which referred to the Louis XIV or florid Italian style, and the composition work of firms such as Jackson of Rathbone Place and Messrs Birkfeld & Haselden.