Diminutive Colonial
Lighting Stand    

New England, ca. 18th century.

Appears to be maple with rich color owing to its original stained surface and over two centuries of patination. The hand-threaded screw column supports an unusual and beautifully shaped, carved and hewn, double candle arm fitted with its original iron candle holders above a scarce hand-planed medial round "table", (perhaps to hold extra candles, wick trimmers, etc).

The candle holders are peened underneath the candlearm, and further joining by wrought nails (pre-dating cut nails). The baluster-turned column is supported by raking swelled tripod legs. The carved screw mechanism allowed candles to be raised and lowered to just the right height to optimize precious candle lighting.

The center column rises to about 30 inches. A perfect size to provide lighting to a nearby chair or from a chest. Excellent condition with just minor imperfections.

Made at a time when candles were a leading form of lighting, therefore an important piece of furniture for the colonial home.