Chloe Adams
Candles have been used for over two millennia, originally as a source of light and heat before the invention of electric light. They are still used for functional, symbolic, and aesthetic purposes, as well as in cultural and religious settings. The history of candles is a fascinating one, from their ancient origins to their modern-day use in ceremonies and for home fragrance. The use of candles in ancient times is evidenced by objects that could be candlesticks found in Babylonian and middle Minoan cultures, as well as in the tomb of Tutankhamun. In this article, we will explore the evolution of candles, their significance in various cultures, and their ongoing popularity in the modern world.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | An ignitable wick embedded in wax or another flammable solid substance such as tallow |
| Uses | Providing light, heat, fragrance, and a method of keeping time |
| History | Used for over two millennia, candles were a significant form of indoor lighting until the invention of other light sources |
| Ancient Alternatives | Open fire, torches, splinters of resinous wood, and lamps |
| Early Candle Materials | Plant materials dipped in animal fat |
| Candle Makers | Traditionally known as chandlers |
| Candle Composition | Wax, wick, and solid fuel |
| Candle Function | The heat from the flame melts the top of the solid fuel, which moves up through the wick for continuous burning |
| Candle Life | The candle shortens as the solid fuel and wick are consumed |
| Candle Improvement Over Time | Modern wicks are constructed to curve over and self-trim through incineration, eliminating the need for manual trimming |
| Candle Alternatives | Electric lights, electronic candles |
| Candle Emissions | Carbon dioxide, water vapour, and particles that contribute to smoke and soot |
| Candle Pollution and Health Risks | Constant exposure to candle particles can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases |
| Candle Usage Recommendations | Ensure proper ventilation and use clean, white candles with fewer additives to minimise exposure to airborne particles |
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What You'll Learn
History of candle use
Candles have been used as a source of light for thousands of years, with the earliest use often attributed to the Ancient Egyptians, who made rushlights by soaking the pithy core of reeds in melted animal fat. These early candles did not have a wick and so were different from the candles we know today, but they were one of the earliest forms of contained light.
Candle-making was then developed independently in several countries around the world. In China, textual evidence suggests that candles were made from whale fat during the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE). In India, wax from boiling cinnamon was used for temple candles. In Europe, candles were primarily made from tallow and beeswax from the Roman period until the modern era. Beeswax candles were expensive and were therefore limited to the wealthy and for use in churches. Tallow candles, on the other hand, were cheap and easily available, and so were the most widely used type of candle for centuries.
The first "standard candles" were made from spermaceti wax, which was obtained by crystallizing sperm whale oil, in the 18th and 19th centuries. Spermaceti did not produce a repugnant odour when burned and produced a significantly brighter light than tallow or beeswax. It was also harder, so it wouldn't soften or bend in the summer heat.
In the 1820s, French chemist Michel Eugene Chevreul discovered how to extract stearic acid from animal fatty acids, leading to the development of stearin wax. This wax was hard, durable, and burned cleanly. In the 1830s, a molded candle production machine was invented, allowing candles to be mass-produced and more affordable. In the 1850s, chemists separated paraffin from petroleum and refined it into paraffin wax, which burned cleanly and was economical.
Today, candles are no longer used as a major source of light, but they continue to grow in popularity for functional, symbolic, and aesthetic purposes, as well as in specific cultural and religious settings.
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Candle-making process
Candles have been used for over two millennia, initially as a source of light and heat. They are now commonly used for functional, symbolic, and aesthetic purposes, especially in specific cultural and religious contexts.
The candle-making process has evolved over time, with improvements made to the materials and techniques used. Here is a step-by-step guide to making candles at home:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
You will need a stovetop or similar heat source, a melting pot, a larger pot, wax, a heat-resistant spatula, a container for your candle, a kitchen scale, and any desired dyes, fragrances, or essential oils.
Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace
Ensure your workspace is clean and clear, and prepare a double boiler by adding water to the larger pot and placing the melting pot inside. This will ensure even melting of the wax.
Step 3: Melt the Wax
Fill your container with wax pellets to measure out the desired amount, then add the wax pellets to your melting pot. Heat the wax over medium heat until it is completely melted, stirring with the heat-resistant spatula to ensure even melting.
Step 4: Add Fragrance and Colour (Optional)
If you want to add fragrance to your candle, this is the time to add essential oils or fragrance oils. Be mindful of the amount you add, as too much fragrance can be overpowering. You can also add candle-specific dye to your melted wax to give your candle colour.
Step 5: Pour and Cool
Once your wax is melted and any desired additives are incorporated, carefully pour the wax into your chosen container. Allow the wax to cool and harden completely.
Step 6: Trim the Wick and Enjoy
Once your candle has hardened, trim the wick, and your candle is ready to burn! If you used soy wax, it is recommended to cure your candle for two weeks before burning to allow the fragrance to develop fully.
Making candles at home can be a fun, creative, and therapeutic hobby. With the right supplies and techniques, you can create beautiful, eco-friendly and personalised candles to enjoy or gift to others.
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Candle usage in Christianity
The use of candles in Christianity is deeply rooted in symbolism and tradition. Candles have been used in various religious contexts for over two millennia, and their significance in Christianity dates back to the early days of the faith.
In Christianity, candles are often associated with light, which is seen as a symbol of Christ and the hope he brings to the world. Jesus himself referred to light in the Gospel of John, saying, "In him was life, and that life was the light of men" (John 1:4). Additionally, Jesus referred to himself as the light of the world (John 9:5) and called on his followers to be a light to the world (Matthew 5:14).
The use of candles in Christian worship became firmly established by the close of the 4th century. However, there is evidence of candle usage in Christian contexts before this time. For example, in the Roman catacombs, lamps and candles from the 2nd and 3rd centuries have been discovered, suggesting their use in early Christian ceremonies.
Today, candles continue to play an important role in Christian liturgies and ceremonies. They are used in Mass, liturgical processions, evening prayer ceremonies, funeral processions, and to show reverence to the Blessed Sacrament. Altar candles, in particular, have been used in Masses since at least the 12th century. These candles may also be used in the entrance and recessional processions of Mass, carried to where the Gospel is read as a sign of triumphant joy in the presence of Christ's words.
The Advent wreath, used in the weeks leading up to Christmas, is another important symbol in Christian tradition. It is made up of four candles, one of which is lit each Sunday, representing the four weeks of Advent.
In summary, the use of candles in Christianity is steeped in symbolism and tradition, representing light, hope, and the glory of God. Through their use in various ceremonies and liturgies, Christians continue to embrace the timeless tradition of candle lighting as a way to honour God and reflect on His majesty and goodness.
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Candle-making guilds in Safavid Iran
Candle-making has a long history, dating back to ancient times. While candles in the Roman period were made of flax threads coated with pitch, medieval monasteries and rural households crafted candles from wax and tallow. Candle-making became a guild craft in England and France in the 13th century, with French candle-makers forming a guild as early as 1061. These guilds, known as "chandlers," travelled door-to-door, creating candles from kitchen fats or crafting and selling their own in small shops.
In Safavid Iran, candle-making guilds were likely a part of the country's thriving trade and craft industry. During this period, Iranian guilds exhibited a unique structure, with numerous related guilds organized under the leadership of a single head-guild. This arrangement likely served a fiscal purpose, as each head oversaw 32 subsidiary guilds, reflecting the number of royal workshops in Safavid times.
Guilds in Safavid Iran encompassed artisans, shopkeepers, and traders, and they played a crucial role in the country's economy. The term "aṣnāf" specifically referred to artisans and traders during this era, and they were highly regarded by the government. While there is no direct evidence of candle-making guilds, the existence of various crafts and trades is well-documented in Iranian šahrāšūb poetry.
The Safavid period witnessed a flourishing of trade relations with foreign countries, and European traders enjoyed special privileges, including immunity from customs duties. Major export products included silk, textiles, leather, precious stones, and gold and silver artifacts. With such a vibrant trade ecosystem, it is plausible that candle-making guilds were a part of this dynamic economic landscape, contributing to the production and trade of candles in Safavid Iran.
Furthermore, the presence of guilds in Isfahan and Shiraz, as recorded by Ebn Baṭṭūṭa in 1392, provides additional context for the potential existence of candle-making guilds. These guilds were taxed as corporate bodies, and their members enjoyed a vibrant social life. While the specific craft of candle-making is not mentioned, the existence of these guilds indicates a conducive environment for the organization of trades and crafts.
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Health and safety concerns
Candles have been used for over two millennia, initially as a significant form of indoor lighting. While candles are no longer essential for illumination due to the advent of electric lighting, they continue to be used for functional, symbolic, and aesthetic purposes. The combustion of a candle involves the wick igniting a small amount of solid fuel (wax), which vaporizes and combines with oxygen to form a flame. This process releases carbon dioxide and water vapour, as well as particles that contribute to smoke and soot.
When burning a candle, it is important to be mindful of potential health and safety concerns. While the amount of carbon dioxide and water vapour produced by a single candle is relatively small, constant exposure to the particles released during combustion can have negative health effects. These particles can contribute to indoor air pollution, and prolonged exposure to them can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory issues. Therefore, it is recommended to take steps to minimize exposure to these particles, especially for those who burn candles daily. Ensuring proper ventilation in the room and using clean, white candles with fewer additives can help reduce the risks associated with candle combustion byproducts.
Another safety concern with candles is the risk of fire. Candles should always be burned within sight and kept away from flammable objects or materials that could catch fire. It is important to place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface and avoid leaving them unattended. Additionally, it is crucial to keep candles out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion of wax or other harmful incidents.
In terms of candle composition, it is worth noting that the type of wax and wick used can impact the burning process and the potential health effects. Different types of wax, such as paraffin wax, beeswax, or soy wax, may have varying levels of smoke and soot emission. Some waxes may also contain additives or fragrances that can release additional particles into the air. As for wicks, those made of cotton or wood are generally considered safer than metal-core wicks, which may release small amounts of toxic substances into the air.
Overall, while candles can provide ambiance and enjoyment, it is important to prioritize health and safety when using them. By taking the necessary precautions, such as proper ventilation, responsible burning practices, and choosing candles with cleaner ingredients, individuals can minimize the potential risks associated with candle usage and create a safer environment for themselves and those around them.
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Frequently asked questions
A candle is an ignitable wick embedded in wax or another flammable substance such as tallow, that provides light, heat, or fragrance.
When a candle burns, carbon dioxide and water vapor are produced and mix into the air in the room. Around 0.1% of the candle's mass is flung away as carbon molecules before they finish burning, contributing to smoke and soot.
Early candles may have been made of beeswax, but these were expensive and reserved for the elite and churches. Tallow was a cheaper alternative, though less aesthetically pleasing. Early candles would have been made of plant materials dipped in animal fat.
