From the library at Gad's Hill
Candlestick, mid 19th-century
DICKENS, Charles (1812-1870) — Victorian Sheffield plate single light candlestick. Mid 19th-century, 100 x 45mm, upturned border with gadrooned rim above a pierced cross circular base on three ball feet; housed in later presentation box featuring Dickens's monogrammed initials and lion crest, with brass hinges, velvet lined interior, and a green felt underside.

A candlestick used by Charles Dickens on his desk in the library at Gad’s Hill, with an autograph letter of provenance from his sister-in-law Georgina Hogarth. She writes, "I certify that this Plated Candlestick was hereby used by Charles Dickens on his desk in the Library at Gad's Hill," noting that since his death, "I have used it since and had it in my possession. Georgina Hogarth." Hogarth (1827-1917) acted as Dickens's housekeeper, companion, and adviser and would help edit three volumes of his collected letters after his death in 1870.

Provenance: Charles Dickens – upon Dickens’ death in 1870 given to Georgina Hogarth, sister in-law of Charles Dickens (letter) – purchased from the estate of Oris Paxton and Mantis James Van Sweringen by Dr. William R. Laird in 1936 – thence by descent to William R. Laird Jr. – gifted to Dr. James H. Hewlett, Dean of Centre College in 1938 – by descent to Dr. James Spencer Hewlett in 1954 – thence by descent to present owners.