What Counts as a Medium Altar Candlestick?
A medium altar candlestick is a holder between about 16 cm and 30 cm high. This is the working size for most parish altars, chapels and side chapels: tall enough to be seen from the nave, short enough to sit in proportion with the altar and the crucifix. Our medium range includes 19 designs from 16 cm to 30 cm, priced from $77 to $363.
Medium Candlestick Sizes and Prices
| Height | Typical use | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| 17–19 cm | Small parish altars, chapels, pairs | $108–$294 |
| 22–23 cm | Parish altars, three- and five-candle sets | $82–$189 |
| 27–30 cm | Main altars, larger sanctuaries | $194–$363 |
The price depends on the number of sockets, the weight of the brass and the finish. A single 18 cm candlestick for lean candles can cost $77; a triple candlestick at 27 cm with a wide base costs $363. Both are medium-sized pieces, but they do different jobs.
Pairs, Sets and Multi-Candle Designs
Medium candlesticks are usually bought in pairs or sets. Two matching candlesticks are the minimum for a side altar; four or six are used on a parish altar. Our medium range also includes three-candle and five-candle candlesticks for lean candles, a double altar candlestick and a triple altar candlestick. The double and triple pieces are wider than a single candlestick, so check the width as well as the height before ordering.
Where Medium Candlesticks Are Used
Parish altars. A set of four or six 17–30 cm candlesticks is the standard for Sunday Mass and solemnities.
Chapels and side chapels. Two medium candlesticks give a chapel the right scale without crowding the altar.
Benediction and adoration. Medium candlesticks and candelabra are used around the altar when the Blessed Sacrament is exposed.
Three- and five-candle sets. These are practical for lean candles and for altars where a fuller arrangement is wanted without a large candelabra.
Socket and Candle Fit
Medium candlesticks mostly use sockets for 2–2.5 cm lean candles, or a 4 cm socket, or a pricket. The three- and five-candle models are designed for candles of 2–2.5 cm diameter. Measure the socket before ordering, and remember that a candle follower can take up a small difference in diameter. If you need a larger candle, choose a model with a 4 cm socket or a pricket.
Materials and Care
Medium candlesticks are made of brass sheet, cast brass or solid brass, with polished, lacquered, nickel-plated or gold-plated finishes. The lacquer protects the brass, so dusting and a damp cloth are usually enough. Remove wax after it cools with a plastic scraper. Avoid abrasive polish on lacquered or gold-plated surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a medium altar candlestick used for?
A: Medium candlesticks are used on parish altars, in chapels and side chapels, and for Benediction and adoration. They are the working size for a set of four or six altar candles and for three- and five-candle arrangements.
Q: How tall is a medium candlestick?
A: In our collection, medium candlesticks run from 16 cm to 30 cm. The most common heights are 18 cm, 19 cm, 22 cm and 30 cm. A 30 cm candlestick is a good choice for a main altar; 18–22 cm suits a chapel or a smaller altar.
Q: How many medium candlesticks do I need for a parish altar?
A: At least two for any Mass, four or six for Sunday Mass and solemnities. A set of six is the usual choice for a large parish altar; a set of four is common in smaller churches. The candlesticks should be equal in height and design.
Q: What is the difference between a double and a triple altar candlestick?
A: A double candlestick carries two candles on one base; a triple carries three. They are wider than a single candlestick and are used where a fuller arrangement is wanted without a full candelabra. Check the width and the candle spacing before ordering.
Q: What size candle fits a medium candlestick?
A: Most medium models take 2–2.5 cm lean candles, a 4 cm candle or a taper on a pricket. The product description gives the socket or spike size. Measure your candle and compare it with the socket before ordering.
Q: Are medium candlesticks suitable for a home altar?
A: They can be, if the home altar is large enough. A pair of 17–19 cm candlesticks works well on a substantial home altar; for a small shelf or a prayer corner, the small range (4–15 cm) is usually a better fit.
Related Reading
See the full altar candlestick collection, the small candlesticks and the large candlesticks. For the Easter candle, see our Paschal Candle guide.
