Mid-18th Century “Courting Candlestick”, ca. 1755 – 1810

This is a very nice, early piece being offered, it is a Revolutionary War era "Courting Candlestick". It stands 8" tall with the wooden base having a diameter of 3 1/2".

There was a time when a courting candle represented an important part of the household and family. But with time and changing cultures, its popularity faded. Today, courting candles serve more as a decorative piece. With their beautiful and intricate wrought iron coiled design, these collectibles of the 18th century are easily identifiable and coveted.

In the 1600's to the 1800's, courting candles were used by the man of the home to set boundaries for his daughter. When the daughter's suitor came calling, the father lit the candle in a sitting room where the couple conversed. When the candles burnt to the metal at the top of the candle holder, it was time for the suitor to promptly leave.

However, the father could change the height of the candle based on how comfortable he felt about the suitor. Also, the father could immediately snuff out the candle or add a second candle depending on what he deemed necessary. The courting candle served as a quiet, yet firm reminder to the suitor to end his date.

Rich or poor, the courting candle was used by fathers from all economic backgrounds. It taught daughters to respect their parents' judgment. The candle also taught the suitor to defer to the father's ability to judge a man. Although it may sound like a crazy notion by today's standards, the courting candle served as an important boundary line in the family and social fabrics.

This one is in very nice, solid condition and operates by raising or lowering the candle inside. There is an example of one of these candlesticks in "Early American Antiques", by George Neumann (see pictures). No doubt, some of these candle sticks were brought from home when men left to join the military.