With its unique appearance and rich history, an antique candelabra has always been a symbol of majesty. From Liberace to Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the candelabra has popped up time and time again in pop culture. But despite this cultural icon’s historical significance, it’s probably been a long time since you’ve lit one up – if ever! You may even be thinking ‘it looks pretty, but what on earth do I use an antique candelabra for?’
But there’s a reason candelabras have stood the test of time. They strike a captivating balance between beauty, functionality and culture. And despite having the word ‘antique’ in their name, they can be integrated into modern décor and events just as seamlessly as they can feature in old churches.
Even in an age in which less is more and simple is chic, there’s something alluring about ornate antique candle holders. An old-fashioned candle holder has charm and character, and it can play just as significant a role in your wedding, party or special event as the candles you choose. For a reliable source of quality candles in Australia and eye-catching holders to go with them, you’re in the perfect place: Hall of Flame.
Candelabra history
A candelabra is a large holder with multiple branches or arms to support candles or lights. It’s derived from the Latin word “candelabrum”, meaning ‘candle tree’. The history of candelabras stretches all the way back to the early examples of the Ancient Egyptians circa 3000 BC. The Ancient Greeks and Romans placed them in homes and temples, crafting more elaborate designs and more detailed carvings.
During the Baroque period, flashy and detailed designs became the norm and candelabras were widely used during decadent feasts. In the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, they became high status symbols frequently seen in Europe’s palaces.
The industrial revolution of the eighteen and nineteenth centuries took candelabras from hand-crafted to mass produced, and regular working people began using them. Although candelabras aren’t quite the symbols of opulence they used to be, they still evoke feelings like classiness or mysticism. You’ll still see them around, particularly during religious traditions like the Jewish Hanukkah.
Candelabra artistry
Candelabras have always been more than simple candle holders: they’re works of art too. Made from precious materials like silver and bronze, these classy candle holders have an intricacy to their designs that’s worth stopping to admire. That’s probably a large part of the reason they still fit into modern interior decoration.
Antique candelabras make popular art pieces, and many collectors seek out candelabras from different time periods for their artistry. You’ll find many in museums and are galleries, and craftspeople continue to bring unique new kinds of candelabras into being.
While antique candle holders typically refers to candle holders more than 100 years old, it can just as easily refer to an aesthetic. And that aesthetic is timeless.
The best events for a candelabra
While candelabras are mostly used for events that are a little more classy and elevated, their timeless style is designed to suit occasions of all varieties. Some special events where an antique candelabra can add an elegant touch include:
Weddings
Candelabras capture the attention of guests from the moment they step into your wedding and continue to set the mood throughout the proceedings. Candelabras add a more dignified touch even to low-key weddings and enhance the atmosphere with their ambient flickering candlelight.
Banquets and galas
Whether it’s a romantic dinner or an upmarket gala, a candle can create a more serene and refined atmosphere for the occasion.
Home décor
Candelabras are a way to add a little extra class to various rooms such as the bedroom or living room, without having to invest in new décor.
Religious and cultural events
Candelabras have long been used in religious rituals and cultural events for both symbolic and practical purposes. The menorah is a seven-branched candelabra lit during the Jewish festival of Hanukkah, and candelabras are also placed on altars in churches and Buddhist centres.
Buy a timeless candelabra from Hall of Flame
Sourcing the right antique candelabra can be a time-consuming, expensive endeavour. That’s why Hall of Flame has come up with our own vintage-looking variety. Choose a three-arm antique silver candelabra or a five-arm antique silver candelabra made from alloy metal and designed to use time and time again. These candles are suitable for XXL Cathedral and Taper candles up to 76 cm.
Hall of Flame is in the business of providing premium candles in Australia, as well as antique candle holders, to event stylists, wedding planners, florists and individuals. All of our products are designed in-house with functionality, durability and reliability in mind.
If you need a little help candle shopping, call 1800 573 888 or e-mail as much information as possible to hello@hallofflame.store
