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Pair of Egyptian 'sphinx' candlesticks
English
about 1810
Medium/Technique
Patinated bronze, marble
Dimensions
Overall: 50.8 x 38.7 cm (20 x 15 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Horace Wood Brock
Accession Number2010.1046.1-2
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope
ClassificationsDecorative arts
These candlesticks in the form of sphinxes attributed to William Bullock are engraved with hieroglyphics on the sides, reading: “OEDIPUS EXPOUNDED HER RIDDLE” and “SHE THEN DESTROYED HERSELF.” The third side is engraved in reverse so that it can only be read when reflected in a mirror.
InscriptionsThe sides of the candlesticks are engraved with fictitious hieroglyphics and the sides of the bases are engraved "OEDIPUS EXPOUNDED HER RIDDLE" & "SHE THEN DESTROYED HERSELF."
The third side of the base is engraved "OEDIPUS EXPOUNDED HER RIDDLE" in reverse so that when reflected in a mirror, it can be read correctly.
The third side of the base is engraved "OEDIPUS EXPOUNDED HER RIDDLE" in reverse so that when reflected in a mirror, it can be read correctly.
ProvenanceAbout 1810, William Bullock, London. Jeremy Ltd., London; by 2004, sold by Jeremy, Ltd., to Hotspur Ltd., London. By 2009, acquired on the London art market by Horace Wood Brock, New York; 2010, year-end gift of Horace Wood Brock to the MFA. (Accession Date: January 26, 2011)