Gunnar Ander candlestick

This mid-century brass candlestick, designed by Gunnar Ander and produced by Ystad Metall in Sweden, is a refined example of Swedish decorative arts from the 1950s. The design reflects Ander’s signature approach—balancing clarity of form with subtle expressive elements—resulting in a sculptural yet highly functional object.

The candlestick is composed of slender, bent brass rods that rise from a flat, oval base in a symmetrical, branching configuration. Six arms radiate outward and upward from the central stem in gentle, arching curves, each terminating in a fluted candleholder. These holders are shaped like shallow tulip blossoms, with vertical ridging that introduces a rhythmic surface texture and enhances the visual distinction of the functional elements. The curving arms are precisely formed, and their even spacing reinforces the geometric harmony of the composition.

At the base, the converging brass stems are cinched with a tightly coiled band of wound brass wire, a detail that visually anchors the form and adds a handcrafted accent within the otherwise minimal design. This feature is both decorative and structural, emphasizing the junction where the separate elements meet and stabilize.

The brass has developed a warm, natural patina, especially on the base and lower stem areas, with minor wear consistent with age. The overall finish retains its golden hue, characteristic of untreated or lightly aged brass. The design’s upward-reaching lines and gently repeating curves give the piece an organic elegance, evoking natural forms while maintaining the discipline and restraint typical of Scandinavian modernism.

Gunnar Ander (1908–1976) was a prominent Swedish architect and designer whose work spanned lighting, interiors, and metalwork. His long-standing collaboration with Ystad Metall produced a wide variety of brass decorative objects, especially candleholders, known for their graphic clarity and modern interpretation of traditional forms. Ystad Metall, active from the early 20th century until 1969, was among Sweden’s leading producers of decorative brassware and played a central role in shaping the aesthetics of Scandinavian domestic design during the mid-century period.

The candlestick measures 30 cm in width, 6 cm in depth, and 26 cm in height (approximately 11.8 × 2.4 × 10.2 inches). It is in very good vintage condition, with only minor surface marks and a consistent patina.