Piet Hein candlestick

The Ursa Major candlestick, designed by Piet Hein and produced in Denmark during the 1950s, is a striking example of mid-century design that bridges scientific inspiration with sculptural elegance. Piet Hein, a Danish polymath known for his work as a poet, mathematician, and designer, applied his unique interdisciplinary perspective to create objects that merge form, function, and conceptual depth.

Crafted in solid brass, the candelabra features seven arms, each extending vertically from a central axis and set at varying heights. This arrangement mirrors the structure of the Ursa Major constellation, from which the piece takes its name. The differing elevations of the candle holders introduce a rhythmic visual cadence, suggesting upward movement and celestial alignment. Each arm ends in a refined, cup-shaped candle holder, maintaining proportional elegance and formal unity across the structure.

The central shaft is subtly decorated with linear grooves, adding texture without overwhelming the clarity of the overall silhouette. These details enhance the vertical emphasis of the design, drawing the eye upward while providing tactile contrast to the smooth brass surfaces. The piece stands on a broad, flat circular base, giving it visual balance and physical stability. The golden tone of the aged brass lends the object warmth and patina, appropriate to its era and original materiality.

The Ursa Major candlestick exemplifies Hein’s philosophy of design as both poetic and mathematical. His approach was often rooted in harmonizing organic and geometric principles, and this piece illustrates that synthesis through its constellation-inspired layout and precise craftsmanship.

The dimensions of the candlestick are 56 cm in width, 12 cm in depth, and 68 cm in height. In imperial units, this corresponds to approximately 22 inches wide, 4.7 inches deep, and 26.8 inches high.