DEVIL CANDLE HOLDER

Demonic bronze candle holder

Europe — 19th century

Antique bronze candle holder depicting a reclining demonic figure holding the light support. Made in the 19th century, this object belongs to the romantic and historicist taste of the period, marked by a fascination with the grotesque, the symbolic, and moral figures inherited from the Middle Ages.

The representation of the demon, far removed from a modern satanic vision, belongs to an ancient allegorical tradition: evil is here reduced to a utilitarian function, compelled to bear the light. This symbolic reversal, frequently found in 19th-century decorative arts, evokes the domination of humankind — or of reason — over dark forces.

The bronze shows a homogeneous aged patina, with use-related wear consistent at the level of the candle socket. The piece is entirely functional and stable.

An object of strong character, at the crossroads of decorative art, curiosity, and moral symbol, this candle holder naturally finds its place in a cabinet of curiosities, a library, or a collection of objects with strong iconographic presence.

Note: possible small crack on the handle

PERIOD : 19th century
DIMENSIONS : 21cm X 8cm X 6.5cm
SIZE : 8.3" X 3.1" X 2.5"