posted 05-28-2001 03:07 PM              

A friend has given me your address, and suggested that I ask you about CANDLESTICKS that are marked FRAGET 4220 & 4222 - I strongly suspect that these are new, but, I bought two pair on eBay and both sellers are insisting that they are OLD - 18th + 19th + and 80 years old. Can you advise with your information about these.

I'm now told by another West Coast silver dealer that reproduction candlesticks are now popping up all over. I purchased a pair from both sellers prior to receiving the first pair in the mail. That seller found another identical and listed them. They didn't meet his reserve. Please guide me, I believe both pair were made recently, but am not an authority on Fraget, even though I've been in the silver business for over 25 years.

First eBay listing:

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These stunning jewish sabbath candle sticks measure 14 3/4" tall and 7 1/4" across the base.condition is unbeleiveable with only one pin head size ping not even worth mentioning.these majestic sticks were made by the firm of fraget in warsaw poland. I have seen sabbath sticks in the past but none of this beauty and condition.

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Second eBay listing:

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BEAUTIFUL & UNUSUAL ANTIQUE NOUVEAU CHROME 14 1/2 INCH CANDLE STICK PAIR WITH LILY HOLDER FRAGET N PLAQUE 4222 CZECHOSLOVAKIA?

Excellent minus condition. These beautiful old candlesticks are quite unusual. Each measures 14 ½ inches high, each is marked in the old way on the outside rim at bottom with the words "Fraget N Plaque 4222" and a makers mark that I cannot make out even with my loupe. I was told by previous owner these pieces were roughly 80 years old and brought back by her mother from Czechoslovakia. They are nicely weighted holloware pieces crafted in the old way (see photo of underside below) with nouveau-style flower, grape and leaves designs over the body of the candlesticks. The actual holders are designed to look like lilies--they are very elegant and dramatic. I would imagine they were crafted of chrome as these probably date back to the era of World War I when more precious metals were scarce. They polished up beautifully and are overall clean with a great shine. There's a little discoloration around the hole for the candle from the wax residue that had been in there for many years. One back side of one base is slightly flattened on the extreme bottom from poor storage, but it is not a particular distraction and can most likely be corrected with relative ease. Each of the "feet" on the base and the bodies are beautifully detailed. The base of the candlesticks measures 5 inches across. These are great pieces for a formal table or a piano top or mantle. You will enjoy them and the Old World touch they will add to your home.

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(Photos removed)