Antique candlesticks: types, tips for choosing

Although electricity is ubiquitous now, antique candlesticks continue to be popular, especially among connoisseurs of stylish decorative details.

The use of candles instead of bonfires has been around for a long time. If earlier they were put simply on stones, then in the future the coasters began to be gradually improved. A little later, candelabra appeared or, as they were called, candlesticks. They are beautiful decorative coasters that have one or more branches. Initially, they were only used to protect the surfaces of tables and shelves from wax stains that could get on them. But now attention is paid primarily to how such decorative elements look.

Both modern and ancient candlesticks are divided into several subspecies.

• Tabletop. Most of these candlesticks were used to create a romantic setting or to decorate rooms for the holidays. They were installed on tables, pianos and small bedside tables. They successfully complemented the interior of the room. In the old days, people were too superstitious, so it was impossible to put three candles on the table, since this preceded the deceased in the house. On festive tables, candelabra with two "horns" could most often be found.

• Wall mounted. It was wall candlesticks that became quite popular in their time, because with their help you can create a relaxed atmosphere in the room. They can be double or single. You can place such candlesticks on the wall, for example, on both sides of the mirror. This approach will visually expand the boundaries of the room. In addition, earlier in many houses of nobles, candles could be seen even on the wall near the bed. Now such a stylistic solution is also quite possible to use.

• Outdoor. In some shops you can find antique floor candlesticks. They are quite tall and take up a lot of space. At the same time, such candlesticks look stylish, and they do not take up much space. Using classic floor candlesticks, you can create an atmosphere of the century before last in the room, which will definitely please real romantics.

Until the 18th century, most of the candlesticks were cast from silver, and only after they began to be made from various ferrous metals or bronze. Their price was significantly lower than classic silver items, which made it possible for these items to appear in everyday life among ordinary citizens. In addition, they began to be used even on the streets for their night illumination. And also in the houses of ordinary people and even in public institutions one could see items made of bronze and brass or cast iron. Copper candlesticks looked very nice.

However, any candlesticks needed to be looked after. The care includes not only the removal of wax from them, but also their complete cleaning. To remove the wax, you just need to wait until it cools down and only then peel it off with a sharp object. If the candlestick is not too big, you can put it on for a while. in the freezer. This will remove the wax much faster and without damaging the chandelier itself. In addition, you can get rid of the wax. with hot water.

To do this, the product must be immersed in a solution of any of these products and left there for a few minutes. After that, the candlestick must be well wiped and polished. Toothpaste is also suitable as a cleaning agent, which is applied to a cloth or even a brush and cleaned. An ammonia solution is an excellent remedy for brass or bronze.... If the candlestick does not clean the first time, you can repeat the procedure. It would seem that such simple means, but with their help, the products will acquire shine and beauty, they will become like new.

If we talk about fashion, the candlesticks changed according to its requirements. If in the old days they were quite modest, with a carved baluster or in the form of an ordinary boat, then the 19th century brought many changes. The products acquired an unusual look and began to look more beautiful and whimsical. In some houses, bronze candlesticks with figurines have become increasingly common.

For example, baroque items began to be decorated with maple leaves and small flowers, which only complemented the interior of a room decorated in the same style. Candlesticks in the classical style were mostly made curly in the form of ancient Greek columns or almost naked girls. During this time, they became quite common, which lowered their price significantly. Therefore, the craftsmen began to supplement them with ivory or even gold inserts. Even now, the price of such vintage items is very high.

Ancient Roman products were especially striking to the eye. They differed from others in their pomp. For the most part, such candlesticks were a beautifully designed bowl with a rod or in the form of a sea shell. In addition, one could find vintage candlesticks, where flowers were intertwined with delicate details. These products can be attributed to such a style as rococo. In addition, some of them were supplemented with tripods. Today, you can see such beauty in some museums in London.

In the countries of Western Europe, it was very popular to decorate bronze candlesticks with various figurines. It could be both people and animals. Today the price of such products is quite high.

Before you buy a candlestick, you need to decide on its place in the house. It should not only serve as a stand for burning candles, its task is also to fit into the overall interior of the entire room. When he should focus on himself, then it is worth looking at products made of silver or bronze. It is best to give preference to candlesticks, which were made at the beginning of the 19th century. At this time, they were quite exquisite and beautiful.

Antique candlesticks will perfectly fit into any interior, besides, they will become the highlight of the chosen room.

• Modern style. A beautiful candlestick with a simple shape will be a great addition to a room decorated in a modern style. In addition, it will match the color scheme of the entire room. The curved shape of the base of the candlestick can also match either the patterns on the walls or the peculiarities of the lamp design.

• Art Nouveau style. An antique table candlestick will become a real decoration of modern kitchen. It is perfect for a tete-a-tete dinner and for receiving guests.

• On the terrace. A floor candlestick will look quite beautiful and stylish. In the summertime, you can move it to the terrace and enjoy the candle fire in the evening with your loved one or just with your family.

• Hanging candelabra. Candlesticks hanging from the ceiling will look no less beautiful. They also help create a romantic atmosphere in the home. They can be used daily instead of regular light bulbs to relax after a long day at work.

Antique candlesticks can be very different, therefore you can choose them for every taste... In addition, you can buy them in any antique shop, the main thing is to make sure of the authenticity of the purchased product.

For information on how to make an antique candlestick from a kerosene lamp, see below.