Tyler Brooks
A candle holder, also known as a candlestick or candelabra, has several parts. The central candle holder, or 'capital', is where the candle sits. The 'labra' or 'arms' are the branches that support the capital, and the 'column' is the structural pillar that supports the capital and the rest of the candle holder. A 'drip pan' can catch wax dripping from the candle, and a 'sconce' is a decorative addition that prevents wax from getting wedged in the capital and can also act as a secondary drip pan. Some candle holders also have caps or finials that can be used as candle snuffers.
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What You'll Learn
- The 'drip pan' catches wax dripping from the candle
- 'Labra' are the arms/branches that support multiple capitals
- The 'column' is the structural pillar that supports the capital
- The 'sleeve of the scone' is the cylindrical part that slots into the hole of the capital
- The candelabra has arms to hold more than one candle
The 'drip pan' catches wax dripping from the candle
The drip pan is an essential part of a candle holder, specifically a candelabrum, serving the practical function of catching any wax that may drip from the candle. This is especially important in candelabra with multiple candles, where a large amount of wax could drip down and create a mess. The drip pan is placed at the base of the column or labra, directly underneath the candle, to effectively catch any wax that may fall.
The presence of a drip pan is a thoughtful design feature, ensuring that the candlelight can be enjoyed without the worry of wax dripping onto surfaces. This is particularly useful for candle holders made from delicate or difficult-to-clean materials, such as those made from silver or brass. By catching the dripping wax, the drip pan helps to maintain the aesthetic appeal of the candle holder and prevents the build-up of wax that could otherwise be challenging to remove.
Candelabra have been around for centuries, particularly in the dwellings of the rich, where they served not only as a source of light but also as a display of wealth. Today, candelabra continue to be valued for their aesthetic appeal, with the warm glow of candlelight creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Whether used for dining or as a decorative piece in the home, a candelabrum with a well-placed drip pan can ensure that the experience of candlelight is enjoyable and mess-free.
The drip pan is just one of several parts that make up a candelabrum. Other components include the labra, which are the arms or branches that support the candles, and the column, which provides structural support and can come in various styles, such as Corinthian, Solomonic, or panelled. Together, these parts create a functional and elegant candle holder that has endured throughout the ages.
Overall, the drip pan plays a crucial role in the design of a candle holder, ensuring that the experience of candlelight is one of relaxation and enjoyment, rather than worry over wax drips and mess. Its presence allows candle enthusiasts to focus on the warm glow and dancing shadows cast by the flickering flames, enhancing the ambiance of any space.
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'Labra' are the arms/branches that support multiple capitals
Labra are the arms or branches that support multiple capitals, or central candle holders, of a candelabra. They are the distinguishing feature of a candelabra, as opposed to a candlestick. A candelabra with two arms and a central candle holder can accommodate three candles in total, while a four-arm candelabra with a central candle holder can hold five candles. Some candelabras do not have a central candle holder, and instead, rely solely on the arms to hold candles.
Candelabras can also have rotational or pivotal arms, which allow for candles to be lit more easily by enabling the user to turn the candle arms from the shoulder, rather than having to move the entire candelabra from its base. Some candelabras also have detachable arms, which can be useful for cleaning or for using the candelabra as a candlestick.
The arms of a candelabra can be made from solid gold, silver, or brass, but they are usually electroplated in these metals. They can also be made from other metal alloys and can come with different types of bases and columns.
In terms of style, the most classical styles of candelabras are Baroque, Rococo, Gothic, and Georgian. However, there are also plenty of modern and shabby chic styles available.
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The 'column' is the structural pillar that supports the capital
The column is a vital component of a candle holder, providing structural support and stability to the entire piece. It serves as the backbone, upholding the capital and ensuring the candle holder stands upright. Without a sturdy column, the candle holder would lack balance and be susceptible to toppling over.
The design of the column plays a crucial role in the overall aesthetics of the candle holder. Columns can come in various styles, each adding a distinct character to the holder. One popular style is the Corinthian column, distinguished by its cylindrical shape and vertical fluted decorations. This style evokes a sense of elegance and sophistication with its intricate grooves. Another style is the Solomonic column, also known as the Barley-sugar or helical column. This column captivates with its spiralling helix form, resembling a corkscrew. The very shape of this column suggests movement and energy.
The Panelled column is a testament to simplicity, often featuring a plain faceted shape. However, it may also incorporate shaped designs on its lower portion, adding a subtle touch of intricacy. The variety of column styles allows for diverse visual expressions, catering to different tastes and decorative themes. From the ornate to the understated, these columns contribute significantly to the overall ambiance of a space.
The height of the column is another important consideration. By varying the height of the column, candle holders can be designed to suit different contexts and purposes. Taller columns elevate the candle, making it more prominent and enhancing its illumination. They can be particularly effective in grand settings or spaces with high ceilings, where the extra height ensures the candlelight reaches far and wide. Conversely, shorter columns create a more intimate and cosy atmosphere, making them ideal for smaller spaces or settings where a softer, more subdued lighting effect is desired.
The structural integrity of the column is paramount. It must be straight and free from bends or warping. Any imperfections in the column's structure can lead to instability and compromise the overall balance of the candle holder. Over time, heat or external forces may cause the column to deviate from its straight form, requiring careful attention during the manufacturing process and subsequent handling.
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The 'sleeve of the scone' is the cylindrical part that slots into the hole of the capital
The sconce is a key component of a candlestick or candelabra, and its sleeve plays an important role in the overall structure and stability. The sleeve of the sconce is the cylindrical part that extends downwards from the sconce, fitting snugly into the capital, which is the top portion of the supporting column. This connection between the sleeve of the sconce and the capital is crucial for the stability of the entire candle holder assembly.
The sleeve of the sconce is designed to be securely attached to the capital, often through a push-fit mechanism. This connection ensures that the sconce remains firmly in place, bearing the weight of the candle or candles. The cylindrical shape of the sleeve is well-suited for this purpose, providing a stable base for the sconce and preventing any unwanted movement or wobbling.
In terms of identification, the sleeve of the sconce can be visually distinguished by its smooth, curved surface, contrasting with the flat surface of the capital. The sleeve often exhibits a seamless continuation of the sconce's design or decorative elements, creating a cohesive and unified appearance.
When examining antique candlesticks, it is important to inspect the sleeve of the sconce for hallmarks. These hallmarks, which can be partial or full, provide valuable information about the piece's authenticity and origin. They can indicate whether the sconce is original to the candlestick or if it has been replaced over time.
The sleeve of the sconce, while often overlooked, is an essential structural element that contributes to the overall integrity and aesthetics of the candle holder. Its secure attachment to the capital ensures the stability of the sconce, allowing it to safely hold candles and providing a reliable source of illumination.
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The candelabra has arms to hold more than one candle
A candelabra is a candle holder with multiple arms. The word "candelabra" is derived from the Latin "candēlābrum", meaning "candlestick". It is used to describe a variety of candle holders, including chandeliers, but can be distinguished as a branched candle holder placed on a surface.
The main feature that differentiates a candelabra from a candlestick is that a candelabra has arms or branches to hold multiple candles. These arms are called labra, and they support the capitals of the candelabra. Some candelabras have rotational or pivotal arms, which can be lit without moving the entire candelabra from its base. They may also have detachable arms, allowing them to be used as candlesticks or for easier cleaning.
Candelabras can be made from solid gold, silver, or brass, but are usually electroplated in these metals. They may also be made from other metal alloys and can have different types of bases and columns. The columns provide structural support and come in various styles, such as Corinthian, Solomonic, and panelled.
Candelabras have been used for centuries, dating back to ancient times. They were particularly popular in the dwellings of the rich, where they served as a way to light the home and display wealth. Today, they are mostly used for decorative purposes, although they are still found in certain religious ceremonies and liturgies.
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Frequently asked questions
The main parts of a candle holder are the sconce, the drip pan, the labra, the column, and the capital.
A sconce is a decorative addition to the top of a candlestick that prevents wax from getting stuck in the capital. It has a plateaued top that can act as a secondary drip pan.
A drip pan, also known as a capital, is a part of a candelabra that catches wax dripping from the candle down the column or labra.
Labra are the arms or branches that support the multiple capitals of any candelabra. This is the main differentiating feature between a candelabra and a candlestick.
The column is a structural pillar that supports the capital and allows the piece to stand upright, providing a variety of heights and styles, such as the Corinthian style with its vertical fluted decoration.
