Can I use real candles on them?

You can burn standard tapered candles provided they fit snugly inside the nozzle without wobbling. Use melted wax or small candle rings to secure loose candles upright and prevent side drips. Extinguish the flame before the wax burns down near the metal sconce to avoid heat damage. Clean away any wax residue using warm water rather than scraping with sharp metal tools.

How do telescopic candlesticks work?

Telescopic candlesticks operate through a snug inner tube that slides up and down within the outer shaft. Friction holds the upper section at your chosen height. Adjust the height gently by pulling straight up or pushing down without twisting. If the mechanism feels loose, a restorer can easily readjust the internal tension.

Are these pieces solid silver?

Most items listed under this style are Old Sheffield plate rather than solid silver. This technique fuses silver to copper, offering the appearance of solid metal at a different weight. Solid silver examples carry clear hallmarks indicating the assay office and year of creation. Examine the edges and underside of the base to spot copper show-through which identifies plated pieces.