Candelabras are beautiful and historical utensils with refined ornamental patterns and their use in today’s dining rooms reflects the high level of people’s tastes. These many-armed candle holders have been used as centerpieces or artifacts on dining tables as well as altars and religious ceremonies all through history. This article specifically focuses on a brief look at how and when candelabras were first used, various styles that have been used throughout history and how people are still uses candelabras today.
Candelabras have a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations:
- Ancient Origins: While the use of candle holders can be traced back from as early as the Roman and Greek civilizations, the candelabras were not only used for lighting purposes but also for religious functions. These early versions were usually metal crafted in bronze or iron and had less detailed or intricate designs.
- Medieval and Renaissance Eras: Candelabras grew less primitive as art progressed by the Middle Ages and renaissance eras which influenced the design brought onto the piece. They were often depicted in churches and noble residences and were made of precious metals and have engravings.
- 18th and 19th Centuries: Moving to the period of Baroque and Rococo, candelabra reached the peak of their development in terms of design – they became even more ornate and featured floral motifs, cherubs, etc. These candelabras were usually of silver or gold and formed a permanent decorative feature in the grand mansions of the wealthy.
Styles of Candelabras
Candelabras come in a variety of styles, each with its unique charm:
- Classic Candelabras: Often column-based with several branches shooting outwards from the base, candelabras resemble other antique paraphernalia; they can be made with brass, silver or gold. They are best suitable to be worn when attending formal occasions and give a feeling of the classic style of the timeless age.
- Modern Candelabras: Mainstream designs tend to have more refined and subdued line preferences. Traditional candelabras may look glamorous and opulent, but modern ones can be built from stainless steel, glass or even acrylic and they will look good in almost any room.
- Vintage and Antique Candelabras: Such pieces are considered collectibles and are usually popular among those interested in construction toys. The antique candelabras could easily have elaborate carving techniques and provenance of their own that elevates their ‘aging’ factor.
Themed Candelabras: Occasionally, candelabras are available in certain theme series: Gothic, Art Deco, or in other words, rustic. These can be used to enhance special occasions and matching set designs or themes.
Uses of Candelabras
Candelabras serve multiple purposes, both functional and decorative:
- Table Centerpieces: Common focal pieces that are beautiful and bring a warm ambiance to the table include candelabras, especially for weddings, dinner parties or during festivities such as the holiday season. One can place taper candles or votives towering on the table, which brings some dramatic sense to the overall table decor.
- Home Decor: This means that candelabras are useful in beautification of any rooms as they are made that way, regardless if put on mantels, or sideboards or in the center of a coffee table they give that touch of elegance and class.
- Ceremonial and Religious Uses: Candelabras are generally used during a religious event or as sacramental tools when conducting rituals. These can be identified in religious buildings such as the Christian churches, synagogues and temples, where they perform dual roles as both sources of light and display items.
- Outdoor Events: Outdoor lighting can be provided by tall candle holders that are suitable to be used during evening functions, for instance, garden functions during the night or wedding venues. They give off a romantic and unearthly light, which makes the outdoor environment more beautiful.
Caring for Your Candelabras
Proper care and maintenance can ensure the longevity and beauty of your candelabras:
- Regular Cleaning: One needs to clean dust as well as polish the metal candelabras for them to remain shiny. For silver or brass candelabras, the use appropriate polishes and cloth when cleaning them to avoid cases of tarnishing.
- Wax Removal: To eliminate candle wax, use the hair dryer to melt the wax before you wipe it off with a clean piece of cotton. Do not use knives that might make scratches on the surface of granite.
- Storage: Clean, dry and cool places are the best places for storing candelabras so that they are not affected by corrosion. In case, they are not often used, perhaps their surface should be covered with cloth or they should be stored in protective cases.
Candelabras still sit as one of the most endearing pieces in decorating as they always give a nostalgic feel and grandeur to any location or event space. These candle holders with numerous arms are not only considered aesthetic but serve their original purpose of holding candles as well as from the ancient period to the present time, they remain a source of fascination. Candelabras are of much importance whenever they are required to be used as centerpieces, home decorations or ceremonial products.