Up for sale is a bench-forged wrought iron combination rushlight holder and candle socket mounted on a heavy slab wood base. Constructed with traditional blacksmithing techniques, this piece features spring-tension pincers for holding tallow-soaked rushes alongside a hand-rolled conical socket designed to hold a standard candle. The vertical iron stem is hand-hammered and set securely into a modern natural wooden slice base. The underside of the wooden base bears the incised/hand-written mark "Richard Morgan Maker".

Origin

United States / Great Britain (Traditional Early American / British Isles Primitive Design).

Age

• Iron Rushlight: 19th Century or Early 20th Century Bench-Forged Traditional Blacksmith Work.

• Wooden Base: 20th Century Custom Artisan Display Mount.

Material

Hand-forged Wrought Iron, Natural Wood.

Dimensions & Weight

• Height: Approx. 10"

• Base Diameter: Approx. 5.5"

• Weight: 1 lb 1.3 oz

Condition

• Ironwork: Very Good antique/vintage condition with natural dark iron patina, mild surface oxidation, and authentic forge scale/hand-hammering marks. The jaw opens smooth.

• Wooden Base: Solid condition with natural wood grain checks/cracks and bark edges. Clear artisan signature on bottom.

Reference Literature Source

• Book Title: Colonial and Early American Lighting

• Author: Arthur H. Hayward

• Page / Plate Reference: Chapter I ("Rushlight Holders"), Pages 1–12, Plate 1–3 (Illustrating classic early combination rushlight and candle socket holders).

Authenticity Assessment

An inspection of the ironwork reveals classic hand-hammered construction: the candle socket is made from a flattened iron sheet folded into a cone with an visible hand-joined seam, while the central pivot features a hand-pounded iron rivet flush with the pincer body. The pincer jaw exhibits proper offset bends. Surface corrosion and pitting are consistent with iron aged naturally or forged in a traditional charcoal hearth. The base is clearly a modern or mid-20th-century artisan display mount added by "Richard Morgan" to accommodate the pointed square tang of the original hand-forged stem.

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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.

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