Johnny Mattsson candlesticks

This pair of large freestanding candlesticks was designed and produced by Johnny Mattsson in Sweden during the 1950s. Crafted from solid pine, they exemplify mid-century Scandinavian design principles with a focus on structural clarity, geometric form, and the natural beauty of wood.

Each candlestick is composed of interlocking pine lengths arranged in a symmetrical cruciform shape. A vertical stem intersects two horizontal tiers, each consisting of four evenly spaced arms that radiate outward, creating eight candleholders per piece. The arms feature drilled recesses to securely hold candles, highlighting Mattsson’s commitment to honest, functional craftsmanship. The base mirrors the cruciform structure with four legs providing stability despite the candlesticks’ considerable height.

The pine wood displays a warm reddish tone with pronounced linear grain. The surface is finished with oil or a light varnish that enhances the texture and natural variations of the wood, including subtle tool marks indicative of handcrafted production. Each candlestick is marked with an impressed “JM” signature, affirming its authenticity.

Johnny Mattsson was a Swedish designer and craftsman known for his geometric, wood-based designs created primarily in the 1940s and 1950s. His work was typically small-scale and artisanal, emphasizing balanced construction and material integrity. These candlesticks are representative of that approach, likely produced in limited quantities within a workshop environment.

The pair is in very good vintage condition, showing minor wear consistent with age and use.

Each candlestick measures 51.5 cm in diameter and 110 cm in height (approximately 20.3 x 43.3 inches).