What is a pricket candlestick?

A pricket candlestick uses a sharp metal spike at the top to hold the candle in place rather than a traditional socket. This design was standard for large church candles before standard socket dimensions were widely adopted.

How were these candlesticks used?

These large candlesticks were placed on or beside church altars to provide ceremonial lighting during services. Their impressive height and robust construction allowed them to illuminate vast ecclesiastical spaces effectively.

How do I identify a Baroque style piece?

Baroque pieces display dramatic ornamentation, exuberant carved curves, and heavy scrolling details. In altar candlesticks, this translates to powerful proportions and rich giltwood or cast metal surfaces.

Can these candlesticks be used as lamps?

Many large altar candlesticks are adapted into table lamps or standard lamps while retaining their historic shafts. This conversion integrates monumental church lighting into domestic interiors.