Antique Brass Spring Loaded Candle Holder Gorham 1902 Patent  Tubular Candlestick 7”---2.5 lbs

Description

Antique brass spring-loaded tubular candle holder with removable top and strong internal spring mechanism.

The candle is inserted into the tube by removing the top and pressing it down against the spring. As the candle burns, the spring maintains upward pressure to keep the flame at a consistent height.

After disassembling and examining the mechanism, the internal construction appears to be the same type of spring-loaded tubular candle support illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 698,831 (April 29, 1902) by Charles R. Gabriel of Providence, Rhode Island, assigned to the Gorham Manufacturing Company.

I carefully examined this piece but found no maker’s mark or patent mark. Therefore, it is being offered as an unmarked example of this patented mechanism .. probable  manufactured by Gorham. It was acquired from a Rhode Island estate, making the Rhode Island connection particularly interesting.

Details

• Approx. 7 inches tall
• Solid brass construction
• Removable screw-top cap
• Strong internal spring-loaded candle mechanism
• Tubular candle support design
• Round weighted base
• Unmarked
• Rhode Island estate find
• weight is 2.5 lb

Condition

Good antique condition with original age patina, oxidation, verdigris inside the tube, and normal wear consistent with age and use. The spring mechanism functions with strong tension. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

An unusual and increasingly difficult-to-find early mechanical candle holder that will appeal to collectors of antique lighting, brassware, patent-era mechanical devices, and Rhode Island industrial history.