They could be referred to as the ‘poor man’s chandelier,’ but vintage candelabra have undergone a revolution in the decor industry. As highly sought after decorative styling pieces, their eclectic presence highlights any style or period – be that traditional, Gothic, French or contemporary. 

Antique candlesticks, candelabra and torchieres are just the decorative accessories to add sophisticated elegance and a functional statement to any sideboard, table or occasion. And you can have so much fun accessorizing them and wowing your guests.

From crystal, silver or gilded to cast iron or bronze, their romantic glow and decorative elegance are unmatched.

Getting the terminology right

If you are going to talk about vintage or antique candlestick options, then semantics and jargon matter. Is it candelabra, candlestick or torchiere? 

Nursery rhymes made us familiar with candlesticks – quick and nimble Jack jumping over one – and fairy tales delighted us with Beauty and the Beast’s Lumiere, the maître d’ turned candelabrum. (Speaking of which, candelabrum is the singular and candelabra the plural).  

Antique candlesticks and candelabra comprise similar features with one defining difference; a candelabrum has ‘branches’ or ‘arms’ to hold more than one candle. (The ‘labra’ are the decorative arms). 

An antique torchiere (torchère), dating back to 17th century France, is a tall metallic or wooden stand to hold a candle, candelabrum or lamp. 

Getting the table setting right

Tablescaping is an industry term that simply refers to creating Instagram-worthy table settings that are works of decor art. And you cannot go wrong with vintage candlesticks and antique candelabra as your starting point centrepieces. 

From a gothic 22-karat gold leaf hand gilded wrought iron torchiere, a set of traditional silver-plated candelabra, and a pair of rare 19th-century French bronze candle holders, to a pair of Baroque-style wooden carved altar pricket sticks or a pair of vintage Art Nouveau candelabra, these pieces are the quintessential decor bling for any occasion or event.

Planning an indoor formal event or a rustic outdoor garden celebration? Your solution to a beautiful and striking setting lies in these timeless and soft lighting options that add whimsical charm and wonder to any occasion.  

For just the right romantic ambience and intimate illumination, vintage or antique candlesticks and candelabra add drama and bespoke personality, especially when partnered with the versatile accessorizing options of floral arrangements or simple greenery. Such artful centrepieces will always stand out from the crowd.

Getting antique shopping right at the Crown Collection

Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice antique hunter, candlesticks and candelabra are the perfect starting point to any collection. Your journey to sourcing the perfect ‘lumiere’ starts at the Crown Collection, South Africa’s largest emporium of vintage and antique furniture items and accessories. 

Should you require stripping, a paint technique, hand gilding or staining of any items, our professional craftsmen are onsite to give you the desired finish. 

Pop in at our studio at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston or visit us online. We will also deliver to your door.