Kandelaar van glad zilver met korte stam en ronde voet, speeltafelkandelaar of reiskandelaar 1779

This is a smooth silver candlestick with a short stem and round base, crafted by Martinus van Stapele in the 18th century. The candle, and by extension the candlestick, is a powerful symbol of enlightenment and hope. Think back to ancient rituals, where flames danced in the darkness, dispelling ignorance and fear. This singular source of light resonates with the ancient symbol of the ‘axis mundi’ – the world's axis – connecting the earthly and the divine, a concept as old as the Tower of Babel. Consider its presence in religious ceremonies, a beacon of faith and guidance. From the simple hearth fire of domestic life to the grand candelabras illuminating royal halls, the candle’s flame has been a constant companion throughout human history. It’s a potent reminder of our collective desire for clarity and understanding, a light against the shadows of the unknown, and a symbol of hope.