by Julie Noyas | Jul 9, 2019 | Candlesticks
Item Number: 311
Height: 2″
Production Dates: 1980-1982
While it might be difficult to imagine us needing a Chamber Candleholder today, it was certainly an important and necessary item prior to the invention of electricity. Every household needed one, and often had several on hand. It was not unheard of for wealthy families to even hire personnel to specifically look after and care for all household candles and holders. Indeed, lighting the household was a serious undertaking and not to be taken lightly.
Fostoria Glass described and spelled this item, in part, as a “Candleholder” – all one word. Hence, when I refer to their Chamber Candleholder, I will spell it the same way. I try and remain loyal and true to the original spelling of all Fostoria American items, even when some of the terminology might appear rather archaic in modern times.
The Fostoria Glass Company introduced their Chamber Candleholder decades after electricity was born; however, it is still a nostalgic and welcoming addition to any American collection. Here in our household, we keep a total of three Chamber Candleholders sitting on various tabletops. Even if no electrical emergency arises, our family still enjoys the Chamber Candleholder’s ambiance and serviceability.
The original intent of a chamber candle was to light the way towards your chamber (bedroom). So, most times they were not actually in the bedroom – rather, they were placed on a hall table just outside the bedroom door. This was an important location, as chamber candles and holders were used by all members of the families – each helping to light their way to their respective and private chamber. Once inside, other bedroom lighting was available, which was often lit by the roaming chamber candle.
The Chamber Candleholder’s shape is perfect, and looks very much like the American Handled Nappy. It bears a central socket to hold a candle, and it has a convenient handle (or finger hole) for easy transport from one room to the other. The round design catches all candle drips, eliminating wax from dropping on the floor or your clothing.
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by Julie Noyas | Jun 26, 2019 | Candlesticks
Item Number: 331
Height: 4⅜”
Production Dates: 1937-1982
The Twin Candlestick is rather unique. Unlike the majority of American single candlesticks, this candle holder holds two candles. It is a candle holder with two branches or arms, of the same height and width. There are only a couple other candlesticks in the 2056 line that holds two candles, and that is the Duo Candlestick and the 2-Light Candelabra. All other candlesticks offer service for just one candle.
At the time of its production, the Twin Candlestick was one of the most expensive candlesticks in the American 2056 line. This beautiful piece is approximately 4⅜” in height, and is about 8½” in width. Featuring a low profile, with balanced weight for stability, it will seat itself quite comfortably on the table. The base is about 4½” in diameter.
The arms of the Twin Candlestick are spectacular. The top and bottom sides of the arms are smooth (void of the cube design), branching inward to a center motif. The front and back of the arms; however, display the beloved cubed pattern in great artistic flair. No matter your lighting – dim or lit – these treasures definitely make a statement.
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by Julie Noyas | Jun 11, 2019 | Candlesticks
Item Number: 314
Height: 3″
Production Dates: 1936-1982
Out of all the candlesticks produced in the American pattern, this popular 3″ Candlestick is still one of the easiest to find today. The diameter of the base is approximately 4½”, so it is wider than it is tall. With a substantial base, it sits very securely on a table’s surface.
My personal opinion on these candlesticks is this … the ones actually produced at the Fostoria glass factory have the greatest clarity and craftsmanship of them all. They; however, are also the most plentiful.
The colored candlesticks, whether produced by Dalzell Viking or L. E. Smith, are more difficult to find. The 3″ Candlesticks can be found in different colors – from Pink, Amber, Cobalt, and more. They had a much shorter production life. They also offer a way to introduce color into your tablescape, which is always a nice option.
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by Julie Noyas | May 28, 2019 | Candlesticks
Item Number: C-02
Height: 7″
Production Dates: 1924-1944
When the first Candle in the American line was nearing the end of its production life, Fostoria Glass introduced this 7″ Candlestick. It is the second candlestick to be introduced in the American pattern – circa 1924. It is also known as the “Square Step” Candlestick, because of its unique shape. It was produced at the Fostoria glass factory for approximately twenty years.
It is important to note; however, that the 7″ Candlestick was later manufactured by Dalzell Viking Glass – sold under the Fostoria American label. These newer pieces were produced in clear crystal and in a variety of colors. The colored pieces are hard to find, and in limited quantity.
The Candlestick is about 7″ tall, with a 3⅜” square base. The bottom design is unique, bearing a two-step platform – resting on a solid square base. The American pattern only produced two candlesticks with a square base, and this is one of them. The top sconce is also square, resulting in a beautifully angular design.
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by Julie Noyas | May 8, 2019 | Candlesticks
Item Number: C-01
Height: 7¼”
Production Dates: 1916-1925
When it comes to candlesticks, this one is the reigning monarch. It deserves this recognition simply because it was the first candlestick ever produced in the American line. Being the first-born, this item was simply named “Candle”. No further description was necessary – because at the time, this was the only candlestick available. Some folks today refer to it as the Eiffel Tower Candlestick, based on its shape.
The Candle first debuted in 1916, and was produced for about nine years. At one point during that time, it was part of the American Boudoir Set. The set included this Candle and other various items – such as a Jug, Regular Table Tumbler, Tray, etc. You had the option of buying the Candle separately, or as part of the set.
The Candle is approximately 7¼” in height, with a 3½” square base. I own a couple of these candlesticks that are slightly twisted in the stem part. It is common to find subtle differences from one piece to the other – especially with the older pieces. Personally, that is one of the traits of hand-finished glass that I like – each one is unique!
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by Julie Noyas | Apr 24, 2019 | Candlesticks
Item Number: 319
Height: 6″
Production Dates: 1933-1982
Some of my most favorite items in the American pattern are the candle holders. Fostoria did not offer just one design; they offered several. By having a choice of sizes and shapes, a hostess can find the perfect one for just about any occasion – whether formal or informal. The six-inch Candlesticks have remained a favorite from the 2056 line, making them an affordable option for your next gathering.
While I have said it many times before, it bears repeating … expect slight variations when it comes to size and appearance. The 6″ Candlestick was made for a very long time. During all those hard-working years, mould repairs and slight modifications were necessary. While this candlestick is officially recorded as being 6″ in height, you can find them slightly smaller or taller. Several from my own personal collection are 6¼” tall. Some are thicker (or fatter) in the middle than others. All; however, are beautiful. Variations are to be expected with such handcrafted items.
These candlesticks are heavy, and very durable. They have a picturesque base, bearing an octagonal design. This eight-sided shape is also visible on the top part of the candlestick (the sconce).
While the 6″ Candlestick is beautiful by itself, its beauty is two-fold when displayed in pairs. They were often featured in many Fostoria American print advertisements – either flanking a lovely crystal bowl or a family photo. They are a perfect pairing for your table or console!
As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Candlesticks on eBay.
