Historical information

Portable candleholders were commonly in use in Australian homes in the 1800s. Candles were very expensive in Australia and often were not available in stores. However, after 1850 the price of candles was reduced and they became readily available throughout Australia. Candleholders were popular as they protected furniture from hot wax. The dish around the candle stem collected the hot wax that could be reused later. When carrying the candleholder, the dish also protected the hand from the hot wax.
This one was used by Helena Warren of Newmerella.

Significance

The candle-holder is an example of an item commonly used before electric light came to the area.

Physical description

A white enameled candleholder which is a hollowed round, white, saucer shape edged in dark blue. In the centre there is a candle-holder on a short stem. It has a dark blue finger-grip ring on the side.