During the Washingtons' lifetime, this pair of brackets likely graced the walls of the Front Parlor at Mount Vernon. Their gilded surfaces would have complemented the pair of girandoles (crystal table candelabra) they supported and aided in the illumination of the room on dark days and nights. The impressive pairing was admired by Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Martha Parke Custis. Her husband, Thomas Peter, purchased the "2 Grindoles & 2 Brackets" upon Martha Washington's death in 1802. They remained within the family as treasured possessions until they were returned to Mount Vernon in 1956.