Jens Quistgaard Pair of "Satellite" Candlesticks
A rare early pair of slender and elongated Jens Quistgaard candlesticks, made by Dansk Designs, Denmark, circa 1960.
Constructed of 4 separate cast iron pieces that are screwed together and separated by brass bushings, the form of the "Satellite" candle holders are a perfect example of Organic Modernism from Scandinavia.
From the circular bases rises a conical shape which stretches into a straight sided pole, before flaring out to create large cups -reminiscent of satellite dishes. Like an upturned trumpet, the top half of the candlestick continues upwards, and after a shorter distance being straight sided again, the design tapers outwards to where the candles sit.
Quistgaard designed an extensive series of avantgarde cast iron candle holders in the early 1960's. The holders were not only conspicuously Modernist but strikingly innovative as the candles themselves were reimagined. Dansk produced, in many colours, extremely tall & thin taper candles from a slow-burning, drip-free wax, specifically for Quistgaard's designs. These spectacular candles added visual drama and excitement to the most fashionable dinner parties of the 1960's & 70's.
Of the approximate 40 cast iron candle holders of varying sizes and capacities that Quistgaard designed, this model is one of his largest, most impressive, and rare. However, you'll be happy to know that the taper candles that fit the “Satellite” candlesticks are widely available.
Model Name: "Satellite"
Designer: Jens Harald Quistgaard
Manufacturer: Dansk Designs
Year of Design: C.1960
Dates Produced: C.1960-64
Colour: Black, gold
Height: 35 cm, Diameter: 10.5 cm
Condition: Perfect, only mild signs of age related wear. Remnants of old protective pads to base.
Branding: Stamped ‘IHQ Dansk Designs Denmark’.