Two Arm Candle Holder
A two arm candle holder brings symmetry and warm illumination to a room, ranging from silver plate to cut glass.
Two Arm Candle Holder
A two arm candle holder spans table candelabra, wall sconces and double arm candlesticks created across the Victorian era into the twentieth century. These pieces distribute light through two distinct branches or arms mounted on a central stem or bracket.
The selections available here emphasise matched pairs, spanning French Rococo Revival, Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Neoclassical Revival styles. Table candelabra and low two-branch variants appear frequently among the listings.
How They Were Made
Maker workshops utilised silver plate, gilt bronze, gilt brass, nickel silver and solid brass as structural bases for casting and fabrication. Many examples incorporate cut glass and crystal prisms or bowls that reflect the candlelight.
Figural elements such as bronze cherubs or silvered pewter maidens demonstrate detailed metal casting techniques of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Marble plinths and gilt wood components provide substantial weight and decorative contrast.
Several bronze cherubs and silvered pewter maidens hold the candle arms aloft, ready to illuminate the parlour.
What Varies in Quality
Quality rests upon the crispness of the metal casting and the precision of the joints where the arms join the central column. Superior examples display sharply rendered detailing on figural motifs and crisp facets on cut glass elements.
The integrity of the plating, whether silver plate or gilt, and the stability of marble bases distinguish higher workshop output from standard commercial production.
WMF·Claude Clodion·Barker Ellis·Clarkes
The Two Arm Candle Holder Glossary
- Candelabra
- A branched candlestick holding multiple candles. These domestic lighting fixtures combine a central stem with two or more arms.
- Sconce
- A wall-mounted lighting fixture designed to hold candles or electric lamps. They project outward to cast light across a room.
- Gilt bronze
- Bronze coated with a thin layer of gold using mercury or electroplating methods. This finish protects the metal and provides a rich golden lustre.
- Cricklite
- A brand of patented table lamp and candelabra system utilising cut glass and specific food warmers or candles. These assemblies often feature brass and glass components.
Two Arm Candle Holder: Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I place a two arm candle holder?
These pieces suit dining tables, sideboards and mantelpieces where a balanced pair frames a mirror or centrepiece.
Wall sconces require secure mounting to studs or masonry to support the weight of metal and glass arms.
What is the difference between a candelabra and a candlestick?
A candlestick supports a single candle on one nozzle at the top of a shaft.
A candelabra branches out into multiple arms to hold two or more candles simultaneously.
How do I date an antique candle holder?
Examine the materials, casting methods, and stylistic cues such as Art Nouveau curves or Victorian revival motifs.
Maker marks, registration numbers and screw thread types also assist in determining the period of manufacture.