Ever stumbled upon an old, elegant candle holder and wondered about its history and name? Unlike modern luminaires, vintage candle holders often bear names that are remnants of the past, riddled with historical and cultural significance. Let's delve into the fascinating world of old candle holder names, their origins, and the stories they hold.
Before we delve into the specifics, it's essential to realize that the names of vintage candle holders derive from a myriad of influences; historical periods, societal norms, craftsmanship techniques, and even mythological references. Each name is a time capsule, encapsulating a fraction of human history, waiting to be unlocked.
Antiquity: Candle Holders in the Ancient World
The earliest candle holders, used in ancient civilizations, were quite rudimentary. They were often named based on their purpose or the material used. For instance, the Greek 'lychnos' and the Roman 'lucerna' were simplistic, portable candle holders, usually made of ceramic or bronze.
From these humble beginnings, candle holder design and names evolved with the growth and fall of civilizations, as did their functionality and aesthetics.
Greco-Roman Influences
In the classical period, candle holders were named after mythological figures or deities. The 'Hercules-Candelabrum', for example, was a grand, towering candle holder representing the strength and might of Hercules. Similarly, the 'Diana-Candelabrum' referenced the Greek goddess of the moon and hunting, Diana.
These mythological references often indicated wealth and social status. Owning such candle holders wasn't just about lighting; it was a statement of intellectual and cultural ore finely, too.
Medieval Times: Candelabra and Chandeliers
Medieval candle holders embraced grander designs. Introductions, such as the 'candelabrum' and 'chandelier', which we still use today, took root during this period. Named after the Latin 'candela', meaning candle, and the French 'chandelle', referring to both a candle and a chandelier, these names reflected the increased size and complexity of candle holders.
During medieval times, candle holders were often named based on their environment or the room they were placed in. For instance, 'Hall Candelabra' and 'Chapel Chandeliers' were common, indicating their usage in large, public spaces like halls and chapels.
Renaissance Era: Art and Candle Holders
The Renaissance saw a new wave of creativity in candle holder design. They bore names reflective of their intricate engravings, twisting shapes, and ornate structures. The 'Grecque' candlestick, for instance, was famous for its Greek-inspired motifs, while the 'Bonbonniere' was a fancy, jewel-shaped holder, often crafted from valuable materials like glass or crystal.
During this period, candle holder names often incorporated regional influences, too. Italian 'candelabri', French 'bougeoirs', and German 'Leuchter' coexisted, each reflecting the unique craftsmanship of their respective regions.
Baroque Period: Drama and grandeur
The opulent, dramatic style of the Baroque period left its mark on candle holders, too. Elaborate, Chapman candlesticks made their appearance, named after the French chancellor Séguier de La Logerie, who was fond of such pieces. Meanwhile, 'Éclair' and 'Felucre' candelabras brought a theatrical, dynamic aesthetic to candle holders, reflecting the period's affinity for drama and grandeur.
Ironically, despite their grand names and appearance, many Baroque candle holders were designed specifically for church use, extending the tradition of associating candle holders with spirituality and devotion.
Victorian Age: A Victorian Take on Candle Holders
The Victorian period, known for its gothic revival, brought a resurgence of medieval and ancient influences into candle holder design. The 'german silver' candlestick, for instance, was a revival of the ancient silver-plated copper alloy, while the 'Middle Eastern Star' candelabra reflected the Victorian fascination with the exotic.
Candle holder names also began to incorporate decorative elements or materials used. The 'sales de mer' (sea of mercury) chandelier, for instance, was named for its mercury glass panels, while 'wrought iron' candlesticks referenced their robust, ornate iron construction.
Today, old candle holder names remain a fascinating window into the past. They remind us of a time when function and aesthetics weren't mutually exclusive, and a simple candle holder could tell a thousand stories. So, the next time you encounter an old candle holder, take a moment to appreciate its history - it could be a rich tale of art, culture, and human ingenuity, just waiting to be unlocked.