What Counts as a Large Altar Candlestick?
A large altar candlestick is a holder between about 31 cm and 55 cm high. This is the size made for a high altar, a cathedral, a large sanctuary or a solemn celebration where the candles must be visible from the back of the nave. Large candlesticks are usually heavier and more stable than parish-sized pieces, and many are made of solid brass. Our large range includes 10 designs from 31 cm to 55 cm, priced from $222 to $406.
Large Candlestick Sizes and Prices
| Height | Typical use | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| 32–36 cm | Large parish altars, high altars | $266–$406 |
| 40–45 cm | Cathedrals, solemn celebrations | $230–$400 |
| 55 cm | Cathedral high altar, processional use | $400 |
The tallest piece in the collection is a 55 cm solid brass candlestick, gold-plated and polished, weighing about 4 kg. The 36 cm solid brass model weighs about 3.5 kg; the 32 cm and 40 cm models weigh about 2 kg. Weight is a feature, not a drawback: a tall candlestick needs a heavy base to be safe.
Solid Brass and Weight
Large candlesticks are often made of solid brass rather than sheet brass. Solid brass gives a heavier, more stable piece with a deeper finish. Our solid brass models are gold-plated and polished, and they are built for decades of use. Sheet-brass models are lighter and less expensive; they are a good choice where the candlestick will not be moved often and the altar is not oversized.
Where Large Candlesticks Are Used
Cathedrals and high altars. A set of large candlesticks gives the altar the scale and solemnity the building requires.
Solemn Masses and feasts. Six large candlesticks around the altar are a traditional arrangement for the greatest celebrations.
Processions and ceremonies. The 44 cm acolyte candlestick is a large piece designed to be carried; it has an oil insert and a lamp shade.
Historic churches. A large candlestick can restore the original proportions of an older sanctuary where the altar is high and the ceiling is tall.
Stability and Safety
A large candlestick must not rock or tip. Check the base diameter, the weight and the socket fit before use. Place the candlesticks on a level, solid surface; avoid uneven gradines and loose altar cloths. If a candle is too narrow for the socket, use a follower or insert rather than packing the socket with paper or wax. For a tall piece, two people should move it.
Care
Dust large candlesticks regularly with a soft cloth. Remove cooled wax with a plastic scraper and wipe with warm water and mild soap. Gold-plated and lacquered surfaces should not be polished with abrasives. If the piece is unlacquered, an occasional brass polish will restore the shine; test on a hidden area first. Store spare pieces wrapped in soft cloth and lift them by the stem, not the socket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a large altar candlestick used for?
A: Large candlesticks are used on high altars, in cathedrals and large sanctuaries, and for solemn celebrations where the candles must be visible from a distance. They are also used for processions when the model is designed to be carried.
Q: How tall is a large candlestick?
A: In our collection, large candlesticks run from 31 cm to 55 cm. The most common heights are 32 cm, 36 cm, 40 cm and 55 cm. A 55 cm candlestick is a cathedral-scale piece; 32–36 cm suits a large parish altar.
Q: Why are large candlesticks so heavy?
A: Weight gives stability. A tall candlestick with a light base can tip when a candle is inserted or lit. Solid brass models at 2–4 kg keep the centre of gravity low and make the piece safe in a busy sanctuary.
Q: Can I use large candlesticks on a normal parish altar?
A: Yes, if the altar and sanctuary are large enough. A 32–36 cm candlestick can work on a substantial parish altar; a 55 cm piece is usually too tall for a small church. Check the proportion to the crucifix and the altar before ordering.
Q: What size candle fits a large candlestick?
A: It depends on the socket. Large models may take 2–2.5 cm lean candles, a 4 cm candle or a larger altar candle. The product description gives the socket size. Measure the candle and compare it with the socket before ordering.
Q: How do I clean a large brass candlestick?
A: Dust it with a soft cloth, remove cooled wax with a plastic scraper and wipe with warm water and mild soap. Do not use abrasive polish on lacquered or gold-plated surfaces. Dry the piece immediately and lift it by the stem, not the socket.
Related Reading
See the full altar candlestick collection, the small candlesticks and the medium candlesticks. For the Easter candle, see our Paschal Candle guide.
