Designer: Albert Reimann (1874 – 1971)

Item: Dee Handle candlestick

Manufactured by: Chase Brass and Copper Company

Country of origin: United States

Year made: Ca. 1931

Materials: Brass

Dimensions: 6” x 6 ¾” x 2 ¾”

Description: Reimann’s designs for Chase were short-lived and therefore are very rare.  The Dee Handle candlestick is one his most famous designs.  Most were manufactured in copper, like the other example we have on offer.  However, examples in brass are much scarcer for an already very rare item.  Examples can be found in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and Yale University Art Gallery.  Signed with Chase logo and “Design by Reimann”

Condition: Very Good.  The photos show some spottiness or an uneven looking finish in the lacquer.  That was accentuated by the flash from the camera, but in person it is hardly noticeable, even in good light.  Someone did try to polish the bottom area where the makers mark is to make it easier to see.  However, we did not touch this, because the lacquer is actually in terrific condition for its age and the piece presents very well.  

References: Weber, Eva. Art Deco in America, Exeter Books, 1985; Duncan, Alastair. American Art Deco, Harry A. Abrams, 1986; Brohan, Torsten and Berg, Thomas. Design Classics: 1880 – 1930, Taschen, 2001; Gordon, John Stewart, A Modern World: American Design from the Yale University Art Gallery 1920 – 1950, Yale University Press, 2011.