Over time, candlesticks have evolved from almost random practical objects into important interior design details and atmosphere-creating elements. It is almost unbelievable how candlesticks made from stone cavities filled with animal or fish fat, shells, and even skulls with a strip of thread or fabric instead of a wick have become luxurious room decorations not only for festive occasions, but also for everyday dining.
A special candlestick in a special house
In the past, hanging or chandelier lamps were used to illuminate churches and large rooms - with two or more branches, which were hung from the ceiling with a common stem. Altar lamps have always been luxurious and massive hand lamps - most often with seven branches, after the model of the lamp of the ancient Jewish temple described in the Bible. For wall lamps in the homes of wealthy people, a bronze or porcelain plate was even struck near the base that attached it to the surface to reflect the light.
Meanwhile, the common Latvian people, who used tallow and wax candles only on special occasions, often made candlesticks together with candlesticks when burning candles on a daily basis. Similar to candlesticks that were inserted into the wall, wooden or iron wire lamps were also used. During celebrations, wooden or iron lamps with 2-8 candles were hung on the table near the altar. Such chandeliers were sometimes made from very simple materials, festooned with oak wreaths and garlands, mint garlands, oak leaves, flowers, garters, etc. A special lamp was made from bent branches of a birch tree. Turned wedding lamps with wooden or iron branches and candlesticks were also popular. The iron shapes of wedding lamps were partly derived from church chandeliers. Iron wedding lamps have most often survived to this day, including those with a height-adjustable “saw handle”.
How many candles will we burn?
Similarly, the number of branches on a candlestick has always been important, regardless of the culture in which it was used. Three branches on a candlestick were a symbol of wisdom, strength and beauty for the ancient Latvians. Ancient Latvian ritual candlesticks most often had four branches, symbolizing God, Laima, Mara and Dekla. But the Jewish menorah has seven branches and represents the seven days of the week, as well as the Sun, Moon and five major planets. Three pairs of U-shaped branches symbolize wisdom, strength and beauty.
But the seven-branched candlestick of pure gold in Judaism probably refers to the Babylonian tree of light, it is also associated with the symbolism of space (seven planets, seven heavens). In medieval Christian art, the seven-branched candlestick often symbolizes Judaism. But the eight-branched candlestick was used during Hanukkah - the Jewish Festival of Lights. Candles are lit for eight consecutive evenings, thus marking the miracle experienced in 164 BC, when the eternal fire was rekindled in the Jerusalem Temple and the daily dose of holy oil continued to burn for eight days. In the middle of the candlestick was placed a “serving candle”, which was used to light the other candles.