18th-Century Antique Iron Rushlight Holder / Rushnip

A wrought-iron rushlight and candleholder.

Late 18th Century in date.

With a single jaw and a large central pivot, with a U-shaped arm terminating in a square counterweight. The baluster-shaped stem is supported on a tripod base. 

What are rushlights, and how were they used?

Rushlights were an early form of domestic lighting commonly used in the 17th and 18th centuries,  especially in rural areas of Britain and Europe.

They were made from dried rushes that were stripped of 80% of their external cover (the balance was left to form a supporting spine) and drawn through a grisset pan that held molten animal fat (like tallow). Once dry, these would be placed in a metal rushlight holder or “rushnip” to be used for lighting.

Once ignited, they burned for a relatively short time, up to 30 minutes, depending on their length.

Provenance – Found in Yorkshire, England. 

Condition –  Please refer to the images. Good overall. A further detailed condition report is available upon request.

Size – Height 22.8 cm (9″)