Antique Candlestick and Rushlight Holder

Antique Brass Seemingly Painted Candlestick and Rushlight Holder. This beautifully crafted piece features a combination of a traditional candlestick and a rushlight holder, which was once used to hold a thin rush stem dipped in fat as a simple form of lighting before candles became more common. The 11.5” height with fun feet makes it a lovely statement on a mantel or side table.

Rushlights were commonly used in Britain and parts of Europe from the Middle Ages through the early 19th century. They began to decline in popularity in the mid-19th century as more efficient and affordable sources of light became widely available, such as candles and oil lamps. By the late 19th century, rushlights had largely fallen out of use, replaced by these more modern and convenient lighting options. 🕯️