French Country · Encyclopedia · Tableware, Kitchen and Decorative Objects
Candlestick
Single candle holders in brass, bronze, silver and glass.
Candlesticks & Fireplace · Indicative US retail $30–$800
At a glance
- Family: Candlesticks & Fireplace
- Periods most often found: Most date from 1750 to 1950.
- Typical price: about $120; range $30 to $800 and more for exceptional pieces
- What drives value: Pairs, material
What it is
Candlesticks (bougeoirs, flambeaux) lit French homes until electricity. Louis XV and XVI candlesticks in gilt bronze or silvered bronze, Empire candlesticks with classical columns, brass country candlesticks with a push-up ejector, pewter, silver and glass candlesticks were made for every budget. Church altar candlesticks in giltwood or brass are a large family.
How to identify and date it
Pairs sell for more than double a single, so check that a pair matches. Look for soldered repairs at the base and stem, threaded sections and weighted bases (silver candlesticks are often filled with pitch or plaster). Old brass shows casting seams and wear on the sockets.
Periods and styles
Most date from 1750 to 1950.
How much is it worth?
On the US retail market, most candlestick examples ask around $120. Simple or worn pieces start near $30, while documented, signed or exceptional examples can pass $800. The main value drivers are: pairs, material. These are indicative ranges, not an appraisal; see our price guide for French antiques for the method.
Questions buyers ask: are brass candlesticks worth anything; brass candlesticks value; antique brass candlesticks value; how much are baldwin brass candlesticks worth. The answer depends on the points below, which are worth checking before you compare prices.
Before you buy
- Confirm pairs
- Check repairs
- Read marks
Living with it
Pairs of candlesticks on a mantel or dining table create symmetry.
How we write these guides: identification notes are general guidance written by French Country; a style name, a region or a resemblance does not by itself date or attribute a piece. Price ranges are indicative US retail asking prices for antique and vintage examples in sound condition (dealers, specialist marketplaces and auctions), estimated and rounded as of November 2026; check recent sold results before relying on a figure. They are not appraisals or offers to buy or sell: condition, provenance and documentation can move a value far outside the range. For insurance, estates or sales, ask an independent, qualified appraiser for a written valuation.