Hogscraper candlestick
(19th century)
Medium
iron
Measurements
16.4 × 10.1 cm diameter
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Gift of John Keith Russell, 2022
Gallery location
18th & 19th Century Decorative Arts & Paintings Gallery
Level 2, NGV International
About this work
Candlesticks such as this were often placed on circular tables or candle stands and were a standard part of the furnishings in the retiring rooms, sewing rooms, seed shops and kitchens of Shaker elders and eldresses. The lever on the side of the candlestick enabled the user to increase or lower the height of the candle, and when raised to the top, the candle stub could be easily removed once it burnt out. The Hogscraper candlestick acquired its name due to its resemblance to old-fashioned scrapers used to remove hair from hog hide.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
(United States)
Accession Number
2022.848
Department
International Decorative Arts