Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
Early 18th-Century English Antique Iron Rushlight with a Wooden Base
Early 18th-Century English Antique Iron Rushlight with a Wooden Base
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This early 18th‑century English rushlight is a beautifully preserved example of vernacular forged lighting, with its distinctive upright stem, curved jaw arm with knopped counter-balance, and wooden base. The jaws retain their original tension and are united by a single rivet. The jaws are designed to grip a tallow‑soaked rush, while the forged counter-balance arm rises in a gentle arc that gives the piece its sculptural silhouette. The base is broad and stable, allowing the rushlight to stand securely on uneven surfaces—an essential feature in rural cottages of the period.
The surface shows a deep, honest patina from centuries of handling and heat exposure, with hammer marks and irregularities that speak to its hand‑forged origins. Rushlights of this type were used throughout the 17th and 18th centuries as inexpensive domestic lighting, and surviving examples in such complete, untouched condition are increasingly scarce. This example has a strong presence, excellent colour, and the quiet authority of genuine early English metalwork.
A characterful and atmospheric piece of vernacular lighting, full of social history and early domestic charm.
Provenance
England. Early 18th Century. Ex-private collection.
Material
Wrought iron.
Condition
Very good for age, with expected surface wear, patina, and minor irregularities from hand‑forging. Jaws retain movement; base stands firmly.
Dimensions
Height: 30 cm (11.8 in)
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1. LAPADA (London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association) – LAPADA is the UK’s largest trade association for professional art & antique dealers (representing approximately 500 UK dealer members). All items are backed by our LAPADA guarantee;
2. CINOA –Confédération Internationale des Négociants en Oeuvres d'Art, (or International Confederation of Art and Antique Dealers' Associations) is the world association of art & antique dealer associations (representing 5000 dealers from 32 associations in 22 countries);
3. The Norfolk & Suffolk Antique Dealers Association - Representing reputable, high quality antiques dealers based in Norfolk and Suffolk; and
4. FSB - Federation of Small Business.
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