Chloe Adams
Candles have been used for over two millennia and were once a significant form of indoor lighting. They have been used to illuminate celebrations and religious ceremonies, and even as a method of keeping time. In early America, when homes were often far apart, the sight of a candle in a window was a sign of welcome to visitors. The tradition of lighting candles in the windows of homes during Christmas, dating back to colonial times, was brought to America by the Irish. Today, candles continue to be used for various purposes, including functional, symbolic, and aesthetic reasons, as well as in specific cultural and religious settings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Founder | Karen |
| Inspiration | A candle-making book |
| Relocation | Niagara Falls to Windsor, Ontario |
| Renovation | Farmhouse decor |
| Sensitivity | Commercial candles |
| Ingredients | Vegan soy wax, unbleached all-natural wicks, phthalate and paraben-free fragrance oils |
| Scents | Pumpkin Caramel, Pumpkin Chai Latte, Autumn Spiced Pear, Lemon Coconut & Vanilla, Lavender & Eucalyptus |
| Welcome symbol | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
The origin of candles
Candles have been used as a source of light for over 5,000 years, though their exact origin is unknown. The earliest use of candles is often attributed to the Ancient Egyptians, who made rushlights by soaking the pithy core of reeds in melted animal fat. However, these rushlights did not have wicks, a key component of true candles. The ancient Romans are generally credited with developing wicked candles by dipping rolled papyrus in melted tallow or beeswax. These candles were used for lighting homes, aiding travellers, and in religious ceremonies.
Candles played an important role in early religious practices, including the Jewish Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, which dates back to 165 B.C., and during Easter services in the 4th century. In the Middle Ages, beeswax candles were introduced in Europe, offering a purer, cleaner-burning alternative to animal-based tallow.
The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to candlemaking. Paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refinement, was introduced in the 1850s, offering a more economical and consistent-burning option. However, the invention of the lightbulb in 1879 led to a decline in candlemaking. Candles regained popularity in the first half of the 20th century due to the increased availability of paraffin and stearic acid, byproducts of the growing oil and meatpacking industries.
In the 1980s, candles experienced a renaissance as decorative items, mood-setters, and gifts. They became available in various shapes, sizes, and colours, and scented candles gained traction. The 1990s saw an unprecedented surge in candle popularity, with new types of waxes being developed, such as soybean wax and palm wax. Today, candles continue to be valued for their functional, symbolic, and aesthetic qualities, as well as their presence in cultural and religious settings.
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The evolution of candle-making
In the Middle Ages, beeswax candles were introduced in Europe, offering a purer, cleaner-burning alternative to animal-based tallow. Beeswax candles emitted a pleasant sweet smell, in contrast to the foul odour of tallow. During this time, various devices were used to hold candles, such as candlesticks, chandeliers, and lanterns.
The invention of paraffin wax in the 1850s revolutionized candlemaking. Chemists discovered how to separate and refine the waxy substance from petroleum, resulting in a fuel that burned cleanly and consistently. Paraffin wax was also more economical to produce, making candles accessible to a wider population. However, its low melting point was a disadvantage that was later addressed by adding stearic acid.
With the introduction of the light bulb in 1879, candle-making began to decline. However, candles regained popularity in the first half of the 20th century due to the increased availability of paraffin and stearic acid, by-products of the growing oil and meatpacking industries. During this time, candles were increasingly valued for their decorative and mood-setting qualities, with consumers embracing scented candles and a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours.
In the 1990s, there was an unprecedented surge in candle popularity, with agricultural chemists developing new types of waxes such as soybean and palm wax. Candle-making has continued to evolve, with artists incorporating it into their sculptures and exploring unique designs, shapes, and scents. Today, candles are used for functional, symbolic, and aesthetic purposes, as well as in cultural and religious settings, showcasing the enduring appeal and evolution of candle-making.
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Candles as a symbol of welcome
Candles have been used as a source of light for over 5,000 years, and their use has evolved over time. While candles are no longer the primary source of light, they continue to be popular and hold various symbolic meanings, including welcome and hospitality.
The tradition of placing candles in windows, especially during the Christmas season, has been a long-standing practice. This custom, brought to America by the Irish, dates back to colonial times when homes were often scattered and isolated. The warm glow of a candle in the window was a comforting sign of welcome to weary travellers seeking rest and companionship. The simple act of lighting a candle and placing it in a window became a symbol of hospitality and an invitation to those wishing to visit.
In the early days of Colonial Williamsburg, there was uncertainty regarding the appropriate decorations for Christmas. In 1934, they adorned ten evergreen trees with coloured lights. However, it was the suggestion of a landscape architect that held particular significance. Recalling his family's tradition of placing a candle in their Boston window in 1893, a single lighted candle was placed in the windows of four public buildings the following year. The candles were lit each evening between Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, creating a welcoming ambiance for visitors.
The practice of candles in windows holds varying meanings across different regions. In Middle Massachusetts, for example, it represents the anticipation of a soldier's return home. Regardless of the specific interpretation, the glowing candle in the window remains a timeless symbol of welcome, inviting strangers and loved ones alike with its warm and comforting light.
Today, candles continue to be a popular decorative item, often used to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere in homes. They are commonly associated with celebrations and special occasions, adding a touch of warmth and ambience to any gathering. While the functional aspect of candles as a primary light source has diminished, their symbolic significance, particularly as a gesture of welcome, remains enduring.
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Candles as art
Candles have been used as a source of light for over 5,000 years, and their use has evolved over time. They have been used in religious ceremonies, to illuminate celebrations, and as a functional source of light until the invention of other light sources. Today, candles are used for decorative purposes, as mood-setters, and as gifts. They are also associated with symbolism, romance, comfort, peace, and aesthetic appeal.
The evolution of candle-making techniques and the availability of new types of waxes have contributed to the increasing popularity of candles as an art form. Artists are now experimenting with different shapes, sizes, colours, and scents to create unique and whimsical candle designs.
For instance, in 2019, candles took on a new form with unscented, blobby (and body-shaped) designs, while 2020 saw the return of celebrity candles as a form of scent escapism. Artists like Janie Korn, Risa Makabe, Hannah Jewett, and Studio Sukoon have been at the forefront of this new wave of candle art, incorporating candle-making into their artistic practices.
Janie Korn, for example, transitioned from stop-motion to stagnant sculpture and found that candles offered a unique medium that combined sculpture and functionality. She appreciates the ephemeral nature of candles, where the potential for destruction is integral to the artwork. Risa Makabe shares a similar sentiment, acknowledging the appeal of candles as objects used in daily life.
The artistic appeal of candles also extends to the variety of waxes used. While paraffin wax, a by-product of the crude oil refinement process, is one of the most common and versatile waxes, artists and candle-makers are also exploring alternative waxes. For example, gel wax, made from resin and mineral oil, is valued for its transparency and ability to hold scent and colour. Soybean wax, developed by agricultural chemists, offers a softer and slower-burning alternative to paraffin, while palm wax is also being explored for candle-making.
As candles continue to evolve beyond their traditional use as a source of light, their artistic potential is being increasingly recognised and celebrated.
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Candles in the modern era
Candles have been used as a source of light for over 5,000 years, but the invention of electric light has made them non-essential for illumination. Despite this, candles are still commonly used for functional, symbolic, and aesthetic purposes, as well as in specific cultural and religious settings.
In the modern era, candles have become increasingly popular as decorative items, mood-setters, and gifts. They are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colours, and consumer interest in scented candles has escalated. Candles are also bought and kept in the home for aesthetic purposes, such as centrepieces or to create a cosy atmosphere. Many people consider candles to have soothing and healing properties, which is why they are often used in therapy offices, spas, and other relaxing spaces.
The development of new types of candle wax has also contributed to the popularity of candles in recent times. In the 1990s, agricultural chemists in the US developed soybean wax, which is softer and slower-burning than paraffin wax. At the same time, palm wax was being developed for candle use in other countries.
The artistic potential of candles is also being explored, with artists like Janie Korn incorporating candlemaking into their practice. Korn, who has a background in ceramics, sees candles as a natural progression from sculpture, offering the added dimension of "potential destruction". Other artists are similarly drawn to the medium for its unique qualities and sellability.
Today, candles are no longer used as a primary source of light, but their popularity and use continue to grow.
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Frequently asked questions
Candles have been used as a source of light and to illuminate celebrations for over 5,000 years. The earliest use of candles is often attributed to the Ancient Egyptians, who made rushlights by soaking the pithy core of reeds in melted animal fat.
Welcome candles are candles placed in windows to welcome visitors. This tradition dates back to colonial times in America when homes were often miles apart, and a candle in the window was a sign of welcome to those wishing to visit.
Karen, the founder of Welcome Home Candles, was inspired by a candle-making book she read over two decades ago. After relocating and renovating her home, she wanted to create candles that aligned with her rustic farmhouse decor and were all-natural and eco-friendly.
Welcome Home Candles are made from 100% vegan soy wax, sourced from American farmers, with unbleached all-natural wicks, and phthalate and paraben-free fragrance oils.
Candles are popular because they create a warm and cozy atmosphere and are often associated with healing and soothing properties. They are also used in celebrations and religious ceremonies. In addition, candles come in various shapes, sizes, colours, and scents, appealing to people's creativity and desire for customisation.
