Candlesticks
 A cast silver candlestick, London 1730 ht.6" (15.5cm)

Candlesticks have not survived in any numbers prior to around 1660, despite the fact that they must have been found in many homes.

The typical late 17th-century candlestick was "raised" from sheet metal and had a cluster column stem. This style was superseded toward the end of the century by the cast candlestick, which continued until after the middle of the 18th century, when increasing mechanisation brought about the introduction of the "loaded" candlestick which was stamped from sheet silver, the interior being filled with pitch.

Candlesticks became taller as the 18th century progressed, starting at about 6 or 7 inches (15-18cm), rising to 10 inches (25cm) in the 1750s and rising to a full 12 inches (30.5cm) by the start of the 19th century; Victorian candlesticks returned to about 10 inches (25.5cm).

Detachable nozzles, which stop the wax pouring down the stem of the candlestick, became a regular feature by the 1740s. They usually have the same decoration and conform in outline to the base of the candlestick.

 Sheet metal candlesticks are visually marked in a line on the stem just above the base. Cast candlesticks can be marked in the well, and if so the marks are likely to be worn. More often they are marked underneath in each corner if the candlestick is square, or in a line if it is circular. Cast candlesticks can also be marked on the outside of the base, where again wear is likely, or on the inside rim, in which case they are sometimes hard to find. Candelabra branches must be fully marked. Detachable drip pans, sconces and nozzles must bear at least a lion passant. The sconce on cast candlesticks is cast separately, so any made prior to 1784 should ideally have a lion passant struck on it, although this may have worn off. The nozzle should have the maker's mark and lion passant.
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 A late 18th-century chamberstick, London 1783, with beaded border; ht 5.5" (14cm)

The classic chamber candlesticks, (here comes a candle to light you to bed…), have not, as a rule, survived in good condition. The earliest examples have flat handles and date from the early 18th century. From c.1720 the ring or scroll handle became standard and is frequently fitted with a slot to take the conical extinguisher (snuffer) found from the middle of the century on.

 Chamber candlesticks are marked in a line, usually on the base; nozzles and extinguishers should have a maker's mark and lion passant.
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Tapersticks, made to hold a wax taper, exist from the start of the 18th century and generally follow the style of candlesticks of the period. Unlike full-size candlesticks, they are usually found singly; pairs are rare and can usually command almost the same price as full-size candlesticks.