Erik Höglund hanging candelabra

This hanging candelabra was designed by Swedish artist and designer Erik Höglund and produced by Boda Glasbruk in Sweden during the 1960s. The piece is a sculptural lighting object crafted from wrought iron and art glass, exemplifying the rustic modernism and experimental spirit characteristic of Scandinavian postwar decorative arts.

The candelabra has a symmetrical, tiered form constructed from white-painted wrought iron, suspended by a long chain composed of handmade forged links. Its radial arms support eight candleholders arranged in a circular pattern, integrated within a geometric framework of horizontal and vertical iron members. The ironwork is handcrafted, with visible forging marks that underscore its artisanal quality and slightly irregular surface texture.

Enhancing the design are circular and oval cast glass medallions in clear and light cobalt blue hues. These glass elements vary in size and thickness and are individually molded. Many of the clear glass discs bear embossed abstract or figurative reliefs, a signature feature of Höglund’s glasswork that draws on motifs inspired by folk art, ancient symbols, and primitive imagery. The largest medallion hangs at the base as a hollow, spindle-shaped blue glass ornament, providing visual weight and a focal point at the bottom of the structure.

The candelabra is in very good condition, showing light wear and patina on the painted iron surface and minor air inclusions and tooling marks in the glass medallions, consistent with its handmade nature and period production.

Erik Höglund (1932–1998) was a multidisciplinary Swedish artist recognized for his innovative contributions to glass, sculpture, and metalwork. Associated with Boda Glasbruk from the early 1950s, Höglund played a key role in challenging traditional Swedish glassmaking with his use of rough textures, bold forms, and symbolic decoration, blending modernist design with expressive archaic aesthetics.

The candelabra measures 51 centimeters in diameter and 125 centimeters in height (approximately 20.1 by 49.2 inches).