Bracket
Label Text
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.
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Date1760-1780
Geography
Probably made -
England
Medium/TechniqueUnidentified softwood, gilt, iron
DimensionsOverall: 10 1/2 in. x 11 1/4 in. x 7 3/4 in. (26.67 cm x 28.58 cm x 19.69 cm)
Credit LinePurchase, 1956
Object numberW-2162/B
DescriptionCarved and gilded wooden bracket; the brace is carved in the shape of an inverted shell, the tail curves to the left before it flares upwards, the twined radial ridges alternate in smooth and beaded bands that terminate in scalloped lips; three iron nails secure the flat top with a profiled edge to the brace; the whole is painted and gilded.
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