Monastery candle holder, Swedish design

These types of Scandinavian candelabras are known in Sweden as klosterkandelaber (monastery candelabra), typical for the mid-century folklore revival. The karvsnitt technique, with rhythmic patterns of precise geometric cuts made directly into the wood, makes these candle holders very decorative. The zig zag or Vargtand (Wolf tooth) borders lining the 5 arms of this candle holder are formed by repeating small triangular cuts. In Nordic folklore, these zig-zag patterns are historic geometric borders, faithfully repeated through generations. The stacked rings of chip-carved triangles on the base are repeating patterns that traditionally symbolize the sun. The 5 patinated wooden arms are topped with brass candle holders, preventing the candelabra from catching fire when the candles burn all the way to the end. In Swedish rural history, these candelabras and other carved household items were often made by young men as courtship gifts or love tokens. They were given a place of honor on the fire mantle or in windows and carefully preserved over decades. In very good, patinated condition. A matching Swedish monk chair is also available.