I have been fortunate to acquire a fabulous collection of 16th through 18th century brass candlesticks. I will list them separately as I can find time to make it happen so please ask for another style if you don’t see it here. Also, please see the group photo at the end of the listing which shows 12 individual and one pair of early candlesticks. However, even this group shot does not show the entire collection—so, really ask if you have a style you are seeking.

Early brass candlesticks helped reflect light into a room, not only from the flame but also from the ambient light reflected on and magnified back into the room from the polished shiny surface of the brass. This is the same principle of using bright yellow damask for furnishings and mirrors. See for example,Kelm, Laura, “The Restoration of Stenton's Yellow Lodging Room,” https://www.incollect.com/articles/ochre-old-fustic-and-maple-stenton-s-yellow-lodging-room-restored. “Furnishings” was the period name for fabrics used to furnish the bed and to upholster seating. Furnishings were often the most valuable part of the household.

This 8 ¾” beauty is either English or Continental and from the mid-18th century. It has polished surface. Polishing wears down any metal as witnessed by the very light appearance of the incised rings that decorate the stem and the round base. The cylindrical candle cup has a flared bobeche. The shaft of this candlestick was inserted into the base below the last turning with a screw fashioned onto the end of the stem. The stem likely became loose somewhat early in the candlestick’s life and it was welded in place from the bottom. But for expected scratches and wear, this candlestick is in very good condition. This is a very simple elegant circa 1750 candlestick.