Late Gothic Latten Altar Candlestick

A late Gothic latten (copper-alloy) altar candlestick of elegant architectural form, raised and assembled from individually worked components. The broad bell-shaped base supports an integral drip pan and slender tapering stem divided by three moulded disc knops, terminating in a cylindrical socket pierced with opposing rectangular apertures for the removal of spent candle ends.

The restrained profile and refined proportions are characteristic of North-West European ecclesiastical metalwork of the fifteenth century. The candlestick retains centuries of historic wax deposits within the socket together with a rich untouched surface, bearing the honest wear associated with prolonged liturgical use.