Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver Tubular Candle Holders
Candelabra/Candlestick · Attributed to various Mid-Century Modern manufacturers like Gorham, Tiffany & Co, or Danish silversmiths such as Georg Jensen. The minimalist aesthetic is hallmarks of 20th-century functionalism.
Pattern: Minimalist Tubular / Pillar Series; popular in the 1950s-1970s; many patterns are retired but remain highly collectible.
Type
Candelabra/Candlestick
Maker
Attributed to various Mid-Century Modern manufacturers like Gorham, Tiffany & Co, or Danish silversmiths such as Georg Jensen. The minimalist aesthetic is hallmarks of 20th-century functionalism.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Silver Plate. The visual weight suggests hollow tubular construction to maintain form without excessive metal weight.
Dimensions
Estimated height 8-12 inches; diameter 0.75-1 inch. Weight varies significantly based on hollow vs. weighted construction.
Description
A striking example of Mid-Century Modern silver design, these tubular holders emphasize the inherent beauty of the metal through simple reflection. The lack of ornate chasing allows the play of light on the curved surfaces to act as the primary decoration, fitting perfectly in a modernist or contemporary interior.
Key Features
Seamless tubular form, high-mirror polish, absence of traditional 'loaded' base appearance, and architectural proportions.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or high-quality Silver Plate. The visual weight suggests hollow tubular construction to maintain form without excessive metal weight.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a sleek, unornamented surface. Features a minimalist aesthetic typical of the International Style or Scandinavian Modernism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the base or lower rim; would likely feature 'Sterling', a maker's mark (e.g., Gorham's lion-anchor-G), and a pattern number.
Construction Details
Machine-rolled or extruded tubing, likely assembled with seamless solder joints to a weighted base for stability.
Functional Features
Single-piece vertical column designed to hold standard 7/8 inch taper candles; streamlined for easy cleaning.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the item is a vertical column without discrete handles.
Craftsmanship Details
High precision machining evidenced by the perfectly parallel lines and the lack of visible seams on the vertical shafts.
Authentication Indicators
Uniformity of the tubular diameter and the specific 'glow' of the metal which is consistent with .925 sterling silver rather than stainless steel.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA (Providence or New York) or Scandinavia (Copenhagen). These regions led the market for architectural silver during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1945-1970). Characterized by the rejection of Victorian ornament in favor of clean lines and geometric purity.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the brushed-to-mirror polish transition and tubular geometry.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift in post-war society toward 'less is more' and the democratization of luxury design through industrial manufacturing techniques.
Condition Notes
Good condition; show light surface scratches (swirls) from previous polishing and minor handling marks. No significant dents or deep oxidation visible in the image.
Value Estimate
$200 - $600 for a pair depending on the confirmed maker and whether the base is solid or weighted.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with a soft cotton cloth and non-abrasive cream like Wright’s Silver Cream. Avoid abrasive sponges which can ruin the mirror finish.
Similar Pieces
Georg Jensen 'Cobra' or 'Bernadotte' lines; Gorham 'Puritan' line. These differ in their curvature or the presence of subtle ribbing.
Interesting Facts
Tubular silver designs became popular for televised state dinners in the 1960s because they didn't block the view of guests across the table like traditional ornate candelabras.