Historical information

These miniature candles were traditionally used on Christmas trees before the widespread adoption of electric fairy lights. They were inserted into small holders with clips or spikes and lit briefly during holiday celebrations. Manufactured by J.C. & J. Field Ltd., a British candle-making company with origins dating back to the 17th century, this product reflects the festive traditions of the early 20th century. The inclusion of a complaint number ("8") and emphasis on British manufacture point to a time when quality control and national production were important selling points, particularly between the wars.

Physical description

A small, rectangular cardboard box containing miniature Christmas tree candles in various colours, including white, cream, pink, and blue. The box lid is printed in black text on a light background, and the interior tray slides out to reveal the candles neatly arranged in rows.
The lid reads:
CHRISTMAS TREE CANDLES
British Made
J.C. & J. Field, Ltd., London, S.E.
Established 1642, in the Reign of Charles I.
In case of any complaint, please quote this Number: 8
The typography and packaging design suggest an early to mid-20th-century date, possibly from the 1920s–1940s. The candles are short and narrow, designed to fit into metal clips or holders on Christmas trees before electric lights became common.

Inscriptions & markings

CHRISTMAS TREE CANDLES – British Made
J.C. & J. Field, Ltd., London, S.E.
Established 1642, in the Reign of Charles I
Complaint number: 8