Three-Arm Swedish Grace Candelabra in Hammered Iron and Brass, Sweden, 1930s/1940s

A striking piece of Swedish design, built with the kind of confident, sculptural restraint typical of the Swedish Grace era. Designer and manufacturer are unknown, but the piece is confidently dated to the 1930s or 1940s based on its style and construction. The candelabra rises from a flat, hammered black iron base, its surface covered in small dimpled marks that reveal the hand-forged process behind it. From this base, a single wave-shaped iron arm runs the full width of the piece, dipping in the center and rising at each end, where it holds a polished brass candle cup and drip pan on the left and right. A second, separate iron element sits on top of this arm at its center: a spiral that curls up into an almost-complete circle to hold the third candle.

At the point where the two iron arms cross, a small decorative brass ornament is nestled in place: a fanned, tulip-like form made of three fluted petals, a lovely sculptural accent, echoing the fanned geometric detailing so characteristic of the era and anchoring the whole composition.

The contrast between the matte black iron and the warm polished brass gives the piece real presence, graphic and architectural when unlit, warm and glowing once the candles are burning. A wonderful example of the confident material combinations of Swedish design from the period, equally at home on a dining table, sideboard, or mantelpiece.

The candelabra is in very good vintage condition with the iron free of oxidation and the brass elements showing only light wear, which is perfectly normal for a piece that is well over 90 years old. Holds three standard taper candles.