Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
Large, Late 18th-Century Rustic Antique Rat Tail Candlestick / Rat-de-Cave / Courting Candlestick
Large, Late 18th-Century Rustic Antique Rat Tail Candlestick / Rat-de-Cave / Courting Candlestick
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This characterful 18th‑century candlestick — known variously as a rat‑tail candlestick, rat‑de‑cave, or courting candlestick — is a classic example of early domestic lighting. Standing at 22 cm (8.6 in) tall, it features a slender metal stem rising from a time‑worn turned wooden base, giving the piece a wonderfully tactile, lived‑in presence. The base shows minor age‑related loss, entirely consistent with its period and use, and adding to its authentic charm.
The distinctive rat‑tail handle — a long, tapering extension resembling the tail of a rat — allowed the candlestick to be easily carried from room to room. In France, this form became known as a “rat‑de‑cave”, literally “rat of the cellar”, because such portable lights were commonly used in cellars, storerooms, and other dim spaces.
These small, easily moved candlesticks also earned the name “courting candlestick”. In some households, the height of the candle was said to regulate the length of a suitor’s visit: as the candle burned down, the permitted time grew shorter. Whether folklore or fact, the association has become part of the enduring charm of these intimate little lights.
Provenance: France. 18th century.
Material: Iron stem with turned wooden base
Features: Rat‑tail handle; portable domestic form; time‑worn wooden base
Condition: Good antique condition with warm patina; minor age‑related loss to the wooden base (please see images).
Height: 22 cm (8.6 in)
This is a small light with a long history — worn, warm, and full of quiet 18th-century charm.
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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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