Although we use far fewer candles today, the associated candlestick remains a much-loved object. We know that the Egyptians used candles nearly 4000 years ago and simple holders that also stopped the dripping wax from spilling would have emerged around the same time. The earliest surviving candleholder dates to 400 BC and is made of simple clay. By the Middle Ages the classic form of tall metal candlestick was already in use and although it’s basic shape has changed little, over the years the materials used and degree of detailing has naturally varied.
Candlesticks with spikes to hold the wax candle are known as ‘Pricket’ candlesticks and the useful push-rod design (which could push out the remaining wax stump) was invented in the 18th Century. Although the use of electric lighting from the end of the 19th Century onwards made the humble candle obsolete for daily use, the romance and charm of candlelight has never diminished. Whether you are after a humble brass or enamel ‘go-to-bed’ candlestick or a grand solid silver example intended for the finest Church Altar, there is plenty of choice out there. When buying antique candlesticks it is always good to check that the stems are perfectly straight as it was common for them to get dropped or bashed and bent over time. While some can be easily realigned others will be harder to correct without formal repair.
At LoveAntiques we have a fine selection of antique and vintage candlesticks from trusted dealers for all your needs.
Pair of 19th Century French Bronze and Gilt Five Light Candelabra C 1850
£ 4,200
Robert Belcher Antiques
Pretty Pair of Antique Edwardian Silver Plated Candlesticks
£ 345
Unique Antiques By Emma Jade
Antique Early Lighting 18th Century Brass Single Patinated Candlestick - English
£ 145
Mark Seabrook Antiques
Pair of George V Silver Table Candlesticks - Sheffield 1935
£ 1,295
Highland Antiques Limited
19th Century Pair of Ornate Champleve Candlesticks with Onyx & Gilt Bronze
£ 600
Judy Fox Antiques
Smart Simple Looking Pair of Edwardian Sterling Silver Candlesticks
£ 395
Piers Rankin Silver Antiques
Unusual Pair of Antique George III Quality Sheffield Plated Telescopic Candlesticks
£ 795
London City Antiques
