Kinetic Candelabrum
Thomas Hellström
Sweden, 1950s

Description:

A handmade, kinetic candelabrum adorned with hanging brass candle holders counterweighted by painted wooden balls. 

This candelabrum is attributed to Swedish ceramicist, Thomas Hellström. The swirling wrought-iron tendrils and bright colours are evocative of traditional Swedish folk art which was an enduring influence on Hellström's work. This influence is seen, most notably, in the hundreds of ceramic animals he designed for Nittsjö Keramik throughout the latter half of the 20th century. However, in contrast to these popular designs for the mass market, this handmade candelabrum is a far more refined reinterpretation of traditional folk aesthetics.

The delicate candle holders are created from a single, thin sheet of brass which is rolled to create an almost tulip-like shape for a slim candle-stick. These six brass holders rest on the wrought-iron armature and are counterweighted by six, brightly coloured, painted wooden balls, which gently swing if caught by a light breeze. 

Specifications:

Height: 49.5 cm

Length: 48.0 cm.

Materials: Brass, Wrought Iron, Pine