Four-Candle Candelabra with Brass Bell — Ystad-Metall, Sweden, 1950s

This is a candelabra with real personality. Made from wrought iron in Sweden in the 1950s, most likely by an in-house designer at Ystad-Metall, it stands out from the crowd thanks to one delightful detail: a small solid brass bell that hangs freely inside a circular frame at the centre of the piece. It doesn’t just look beautiful — it actually rings, with a clear and surprisingly lovely tone.

The design itself is quietly elegant. Four gently flared candle holders rise from a pair of sweeping curved arms, balanced by a simple crossed base that keeps the whole composition grounded. The contrast between the matte black iron and the warm gleam of the brass bell is understated but effective — exactly the kind of considered detail that characterises the best of mid-century Scandinavian metalwork.

Ystad-Metall is best known for collaborating with celebrated designers such as Ivar Ålenius-Björk, Walter Andersson and Gunnar Ander, but the company’s employees were encouraged to come up with ideas and designs as well, resulting in a wide range of metalware items that deserve just as much recognition. This candelabra is a fine example of their work.

It is not in perfect condition — and that is part of its appeal. The patina is rich and honest, telling the story of a piece that has been used and loved over many decades. Structurally it is sound, and it takes standard dining candles of approximately 23 mm diameter.