Large mercinated glass candlestick

Former 19th century mercified glass candlestick. In its juice, wear and patina of time, lack of mercury, splinters and cracks at the collar. Height: 22.5 cm. Mercury glass, mercurized or silver, was very popular in the 19th century. Imitating silverware, this technique offered a cheaper alternative for people who could not afford solid silver coins. These pieces were called "the silverware of the poor." Their manufacture consisted of painting a thin layer of mercury inside the blown glass. Over time, this silver color unravels. The mercantile glass rooms adorned the interiors of individuals as well as churches and chapels.