Candles and Candleholders

Candles became a part of Christmas celebrations through their symbolism of Jesus Christ as the Light of the World.

Early Victorian Christmas trees were lit by candles. Early trees had a lot of candles - it was not unusual for a 12 ft tree to have as many as 400 candles! The holders, which can still be found in shops and on auction, were most commonly attached to the tree with spring clips. Many vintage Christmas tree candleholders had round, scalloped metal bases, which served to reflect the light and catch dripping wax.

Figural christmas candles, shaped like angels, choirboys, santas and snowmen, could be found decorating or lighting the rest or the home. Gurley was a popular name in vintage figural candles, with adorable "choir kids", carolers and accompanying street lamp candles. Other wax ornaments are discussed on our Wax Ornaments page.