Measurements: 12.125in H x 5.625in W x 5.5in D RARE, Pair of Chinese Liao Dynasty Gilt bronze candle stands. Both carved in tall spherical shaped, with conical tall necks supporting the flori petals form bowl on top, with short straight cylindrical, elevated from a round dish with flat cavetto gently rising a steep straight sides, with flori form rim, above a spherical belly, all supported upon a bell-shaped prominent foot. The exterior delicately carved in relief with archaic motif, and banded numerously with silk-worm patterned ribbons. Often a pottery or stoneware item with a small cup or holder on a stem fixed to a larger under dish. Chinese candles are literally candles on top of long sticks. The stick is stuck into a hole in the holder, so that just the candle protrudes. The holders also come without the hole down the center in which case oil is placed in the cup (or in another cup placed on top), then a wick is placed in the oil and lit. They are commonly used in South China temples and in Chinese communities throughout South East Asia and has been made from Han dynasty up until today. The Amazing condition with a natural patina giving this piece an unforgettable appearance.