Thin candles: delicate elegance that surprises
21/11/2025
Translation: machine translated
Pictures: Pia Seidel
I've often seen long, narrow candles in Greek Orthodox churches. But at a design fair? That surprised me.
Thin, almost fragile candles caught my eye at Milan Design Week. Between extravagant pieces of furniture, they seemed like a quiet contrast to the opulent exhibits - minimalist, reduced and yet full of symbolism.
The meaning of the sacrificial candles
These candles are steeped in tradition. In Greek Orthodox churches, they are lit during prayers or memorial services. The flame stands for light and hope, the beeswax for purity. Their slow melting symbolises devotion and sacrifice.
Its slim, simple shape radiates timeless elegance - one reason why the sacrificial candle is also becoming increasingly popular in the design world. More and more designers are turning their attention to the filigree wax sticks and developing matching candle holders that emphasise their aesthetics.
«Manouali»: How thin candles change rooms
Theo Galliakis brings the ritual of contemplation into the present with his work «Manouali». Inspired by traditional candlesticks from Orthodox churches, it was part of the installation «Throne Room» at the Alcova in Villa Borsani.
«The installation 'The Throne Room' picks up on the splendour and symbolism of ancient rooms of power, in which royalty represented the connection between the earthly and the divine», says Theo Galliaki. In Greek Orthodox churches, thin candles often stand in ornate metal holders made of brass, bronze or gold-plated metal. These provide space for many candles, which are arranged in rows or circles. Sometimes the candles are also placed in containers filled with sand, where worshippers light them and pray.
Galliakis replaces the traditional materials with stainless steel, steel and copper - processed to imitate the lustre of gold. A modern homage to tradition.
«Candlestick Harmoniya»: a tribute to nature and craftsmanship
In addition to the Galliakis employees, the Chelebi collection impresses with another series of candlesticks specially designed for the wafer-thin candles. They are made of beige sandstone, a natural material that captivates with its warm colour.
The collection was created in collaboration with the British architecture firm Saga and was manufactured in Azerbaijan. It was on show at Alcova and Piloto Milano. In both places, it acted as a silent symbol of delicacy in a world that often favours strength.
The minimalist magic of the «Candelabra» series
The «Candelabra» collection by Miranda Keyes was created in her London glass studio together with Karum Friel. Lightweight aluminium and clear glass come together here. The series was featured in the exhibition «Material Alchemists» by Wallpaper magazine.
The candlesticks combine craftsmanship and art. They look like small sculptures that harmoniously complement light and space.
Light, air and movement: «Candle Parasol»
The delicate wax sculptures at «3daysofdesign» were a highlight not only in Milan, but also in Copenhagen. As part of the «Home from Home» exhibition, curated by Charlotte Taylor, designer Mo To Yang presented her work «Candle Parasol».
The design consists of steel, aluminium plates, Joss paper and magnets. «The 'Candle Parasols' were inspired by the traditional lantern 走马灯 (zuǒu mǎ dēng), which literally means 'light of the running horse'», explains Mo To Yang. «These lanterns have been around since the Han Dynasty and were originally believed to summon untamed souls, later they were simply meant to bring joy during festivals». As soon as the candles are lit, the warm air rises and gently sets the mobile hovering above them in motion.
A little reminder: less is sometimes more
Back at home, I decided to buy myself a filigree candle like this. It now stands in a discreet holder on my dining table and shows how even the simplest decoration can work - if you put it centre stage. With light and warmth alone, the thin candle manages to create a special atmosphere.
Especially in the cooler season and with Christmas approaching, which is often dominated by opulent decorations, thin candles are a refreshingly simple choice. Their style brings calm to the room and emphasises that power doesn't always have to be loud. It often lies in clear shapes that allow us to pause and consciously experience the moment.
Header image: Pia Seidel
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
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