Hans-Agne Jakobsson candlesticks

This rare and visually compelling set of 11 candlesticks was designed by Swedish lighting master Hans-Agne Jakobsson and produced by his own firm in Markaryd, Sweden, during the 1950s. Each candlestick comprises a polished brass stem and a hand-blown glass globe, exemplifying Jakobsson’s signature integration of traditional craftsmanship and sculptural modernist sensibilities. The set displays a spectrum of glass colors—green, red, amber, blue, and clear—each with subtle variations in hue that reflect the artisanal nature of their production.

The form is consistent across the set, with a slender vertical shaft supporting a broad, rounded globe that softens and diffuses candlelight. This design prioritizes both aesthetic presence and functional performance, with the removable globes providing easy access to the candle holders. Heights within the set vary between 30 and 43 cm (11.8 to 16.9 inches), while the diameter remains uniform at 13.5 cm (5.3 inches), enabling a staggered yet cohesive visual rhythm when arranged together.

The brass elements have developed a uniform and natural patina, indicative of careful aging and minimal intervention, further enhancing their mid-century character. The bases are weighted for stability and retain the original manufacturer’s labels, affirming provenance and authenticity.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson, renowned for his innovative lighting designs, frequently drew on the atmospheric qualities of candlelight and natural materials. His work in the 1950s marked a high point in Scandinavian modernism, favoring graceful proportions, refined surfaces, and the emotive interplay of light and material. The Markaryd-based production emphasized craftsmanship and quality, characteristics evident in this ensemble.

This set reflects mid-century Scandinavian ideals: simplicity of form, honesty of materials, and a nuanced approach to decorative function. The colorful glass introduces a gentle chromatic complexity that elevates the otherwise restrained brass forms, making this collection both a lighting solution and a sculptural installation.