Tyler Brooks
Candles and candle holders are an important part of Scandinavian life and culture, especially during the Christmas season. In Sweden, candle holders are known as adventsljusstake and are used to celebrate Advent and Christmas. The term Advent candlestick is used to refer to electric candlesticks, which usually have an odd number of candles arranged in a pyramid shape. The electronic version of the adventsljusstake was invented by Swede Oscar Andersson in 1934 and is considered an important Christmas decoration.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Adventsljusstake, Ljusstake, Advent candlestick, Swenorah |
| Description | A candle holder with seven candles in a pyramid shape, though other numbers of candles are also used (usually odd numbers) and the candlesticks can have different designs |
| Significance | Used in December to celebrate Advent and Christmas |
| Origin | The custom originated in Sweden, though the candle-lighting tradition was imported from Germany |
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What You'll Learn
Electric advent candlesticks
The tradition of the advent candelabra holds symbolic importance in Swedish culture, with light offering a sense of security and warmth. The custom is believed to have evolved from ancient pagan rituals and religious customs, with the seven-armed design possibly inspired by the Jewish candlestick Menorah.
Today, electric advent candlesticks are widely available, with companies like Lightshop offering a range of colours and styles, including LED options. These modern electric advent candlesticks provide an energy-saving alternative to traditional live candles, offering a stable and less flammable option for creating a cosy atmosphere during the festive season.
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Candles as part of Swedish culture
Candles are an important part of Swedish culture, with their warm, flickering light helping to create a cosy and harmonious atmosphere in the home. Swedish candle holders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small, tall, rustic, and modern, to designer wall-mounted options. They are made from a range of materials, including wood, stone, silver, brass, gold, crystal, and glass.
The tradition of lighting candles during the Christmas season is particularly prominent in Sweden. One type of candle holder commonly used during this time is the "Adventsljusstake", an electric candlestick with usually seven candles arranged in a pyramid shape, although other numbers of candles are also used. The "Adventsljusstake" is believed to be based on the Jewish seven-armed menorah, where the candles represent the days of the week. While the "Adventsljusstake" is typically electric, non-electric versions made of wood are also used and are known as "Advent candlesticks".
The "Adventsljusstake" is an important part of Swedish Christmas decorations and is often placed in windows to spread light during the dark winter months. The custom is believed to have originated in Sweden, although the candle lighting tradition was later imported from Germany. Over time, the religious symbolism associated with the "Adventsljusstake" has faded, and it is now primarily considered a festive ornament.
In addition to the "Adventsljusstake", Swedes also use other types of candle holders throughout the year. For example, tea light holders are popular, and candles are often used as table decorations during meals. Swedes value the cosy atmosphere that candles create, and they are an integral part of Scandinavian life, contributing to the concept of "hygge", or cosiness.
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Different materials for candle holders
Candle holders are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Here are some of the most common materials used for candle holders:
Metal
Metal candle holders are durable and long-lasting. They can retain heat, enabling a continuous burn, and can accumulate dripping wax without damage. Metal candle holders can be made from various metals, including brass, iron, steel, and aluminium. Metal holders are often heavier and more expensive than other materials, but they offer stability and a wide range of styles.
Glass
Glass candle holders are timeless and versatile, combining well with various deco styles. They can be transparent or opaque, and coloured glass adds variety to candle holder designs. Glass is fragile, and prices tend to vary according to size and thickness. Glass candle holders are elegant and enhance the lighting effect of candles.
Crystal
Crystal candle holders are considered more valuable than glass due to their perfect atomic structure. They are more expensive than glass and even more fragile, limiting their use. Crystal candle holders are luxurious and elegant, reflecting light beautifully.
Ceramic
Ceramic candle holders are durable and heat-resistant, making them a worthwhile investment. They are more resistant to heat than glass and less fragile than porcelain. Ceramics bring elegance to homes with their unique designs.
Stone
Stone candle holders offer an industrial design with dark colours and durable material. Stone candle holders are long-lasting and can withstand wear and tear. They bring a unique, rustic charm to any space.
Wood
Wooden candle holders bring nature into the home with their warm and inviting appearance. They can be stained, carved, or fashioned to create various designs. However, wood requires careful consideration for placement, as extreme weather conditions can affect their structure.
In addition to these common materials, candle holders can also be made from plastic, porcelain, and even brass antique, which is a painting process that gives iron candle holders a vintage appearance. Swedish candle holders, in particular, showcase a range of materials, including brass, iron, and wood, contributing to a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
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Shapes and sizes of candle holders
Candle holders come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. They can be made of metal, glass, crystal, porcelain, stone, or wood, and can be designed for use on the floor, tabletop, or as a centerpiece.
Floor Candle Holders
Floor candle holders can be used to hold candles and flank either side of a fireplace or line the steps of a back deck. They come in various shapes, including candlesticks, lanterns, and novelty shapes.
Tabletop/Centerpiece Candle Holders
Tabletop or centerpiece candle holders are typically used as a statement piece on a dining or coffee table. They can also be placed on a mantelpiece or used to create a centerpiece for a wedding. These candle holders come in various sizes and heights and can be made of metal, glass, crystal, or porcelain.
Pillar Candle Holders
Pillar candle holders are designed to hold pillar candles with diameters of 2", 3", and 4". They have wide bases and long wicks and are available in a range of shapes and materials such as metal, glass, ceramic, or wood.
Taper Candle Holders
Taper candle holders are designed to fit tall and thin taper candles. They have an inset opening that holds the candle and can come in various heights, widths, materials, and colors. These are commonly used in restaurants and are perfect for providing soft, ambient lighting.
Votive/Tea Light Candle Holders
Votive or tea light candle holders are short and come in various decorative colors and accents. They are perfect for use as stylish decor and can be made of glass, allowing the soft glow of the tea light to permeate through.
In addition to these common types, candle holders can also come in unique shapes and sizes, such as ball candle holders, which complement the round shape of the ball candles. Candelabras are another option, which are grand candle holders with multiple arms or branches for holding several candles.
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Candle holder maintenance
Candle holders are an elegant addition to any home, and with proper care, they can last for years. Here are some tips to help you maintain your candle holders and keep them looking their best:
Regular Cleaning: It is important to clean your candle holders regularly to prevent the build-up of wax and dust. After each use, allow the candle holder to cool down, and then gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth to remove any excess wax. You can also use a gentle soap solution and a soft brush to remove any stubborn wax residue. Be sure to dry the candle holder thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots.
Polishing: Depending on the material of your candle holder, you may need to polish it occasionally to maintain its luster. For metal candle holders, use a soft cloth and a metal polish designed for the specific type of metal. Glass and crystal candle holders can be polished with a soft cloth and a mild glass cleaner. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface.
Wax Management: It is important to manage the wax build-up in your candle holders to ensure a clean burn and extend the life of the holder. If you notice a significant build-up of wax, allow it to cool and then gently remove it with a blunt knife or a butter knife. Be careful not to scratch the surface of the candle holder. You can also try placing the candle holder in the freezer for a few hours, which will cause the wax to contract and pop out more easily.
Protecting the Surface: Candle holders can leave marks on sensitive surfaces such as wood or lacquered finishes. To protect these surfaces, consider placing a coaster or a small plate under the candle holder to catch any wax drips or residue. This will also make it easier to move the candle holder without leaving marks on the surface.
Storing: When not in use, store your candle holders in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause fading and discoloration, especially for candle holders made of delicate materials like glass or crystal. If you need to store candles in the holder, wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent dust and debris from settling on the holder.
With these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your candle holders in pristine condition and enjoy their beauty for years to come. Whether you prefer traditional or modern designs, candle holders add a touch of warmth and ambiance to any space.
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Frequently asked questions
Swedish candle holders are called "Adventsljusstake". The term Advent candlestick is also used to refer to electric candlesticks, which usually have seven candles in a pyramid shape, but other numbers of candles are also used.
The Adventsljusstake is a special candlestick used in December to celebrate Advent and Christmas. It is believed to be based on the Jewish candlestick Menorah, which symbolizes the burning thorn bush that the Lord appeared to Moses on Mount Horeb.
Some popular brands of Swedish candle holders include Skultuna, STOFF, and Tom Dixon.
