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Antique Chinese Style Bronze Dragon Candle Holder - 17.5cm/7"
Measures - (Height) 17.5cm/7"
A striking Chinese-style bronze double candle holder, formed as a dynamic, intertwined dragon rising from a shaped base. At 17.5 cm / 7 in high, this compact yet visually powerful piece is designed to hold two slender taper candles, one in each elevated drip pan.
The Chinese dragon, a creature of myth and legend, has been a potent symbol of power, wisdom, and prosperity in Chinese culture for millennia.
Unlike the malevolent dragons of Western folklore, the Chinese dragon is a benevolent and auspicious creature.
The Chinese dragon embodies several positive attributes and holds various symbolic meanings:
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Power and Authority: As a symbol of the emperor, the dragon represents supreme power and authority. It signifies the emperor's divine right to rule and his ability to command respect and awe.
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Wisdom and Knowledge: The dragon is also a symbol of wisdom and intelligence, representing enlightenment, spiritual energy, and knowledge.
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Good Fortune and Prosperity: Dragons are considered harbingers of good fortune and prosperity. They are believed to bring rain, essential for abundant harvests, and are thus revered as protectors of the people.
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Harmony and Balance: The dragon's association with water and the heavens reflects the importance of harmony and balance in nature and society. It embodies the concept of yin and yang, representing the balance of opposites.
The sinuous dragon coils upward in an energetic circular composition, its scaled body twisting around an open central space before dividing into two graceful candle branches. The creature’s alert head, curling whiskers, pronounced horns and flowing mane are rendered with expressive detail, while its long tail and textured scales create movement throughout the sculpture.
In Chinese art and mythology, the dragon is a profoundly auspicious creature associated with wisdom, power, protection, prosperity and the life-giving forces of water and rain. Unlike the adversarial dragon of much Western folklore, the Chinese dragon is traditionally a benevolent and commanding symbol—an emblem of good fortune, vitality and authority. Dragon designs have appeared on Chinese bronzes for millennia, including ritual vessels and decorative objects
The bronze has developed an attractive aged verdigris patina, with tones of green, blue-green, brown and warm copper visible across the surface. This natural-looking variation enhances the modelling of the dragon’s scales and gives the candle holder an atmospheric, antique-inspired character.
Ideal for a dining table, mantelpiece, console, altar, study or display cabinet, this unusual double candle holder brings sculptural presence as well as warm candlelight to an interior. It is a distinctive addition for collectors of Chinese-inspired bronzes, Asian decorative arts and dragon symbolism.
Measurements
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Height: 17.5 cm / 7 in
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Holds: Two taper candles
Key Features
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Chinese-style bronze double candle holder
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Dramatic intertwined dragon design
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Two elevated candle cups for slim taper candles
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Detailed dragon head, horns, whiskers, scaled body and curling tail
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Beautiful aged green, blue-green and brown verdigris patina
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Compact display size at 17.5 cm / 7 in high
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Symbolic of auspiciousness, protection, prosperity, wisdom and power
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Suitable for a table, mantel, altar, cabinet, study or decorative interior
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A distinctive gift for collectors of Asian art and dragon-themed décor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the dragon represent in Chinese art?
The dragon is one of the most important and auspicious beings in Chinese art and mythology. It is traditionally associated with power, wisdom, prosperity, rain, water, vitality and good fortune. It also became closely associated with imperial authority in later Chinese history.
What type of candles does it hold?
The holder has two shallow candle cups designed for slender taper candles. Before use, check that each candle fits securely and stands upright. For safety, do not force candles into the cups; a suitable candle adhesive or wax stabiliser may be used if needed.
Can the candle holder be used with real candles?
Yes, provided it is used carefully on a stable, heat-resistant surface and never left unattended. Keep it away from flammable materials, children, pets, curtains and draughts. Ensure the candles are securely seated and extinguish them before leaving the room.
Because the object has an aged bronze surface, avoid allowing melted wax to build up or remain on the patina for long periods.
What is verdigris patina?
Verdigris is the blue-green surface coloration that can develop on copper alloys such as bronze over time through oxidation and environmental exposure. On this candle holder, the varied green, blue-green, brown and copper tones add depth and emphasise the dragon’s scaled modelling.
How should I clean the bronze?
Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth or soft brush. Avoid metal polish, abrasive materials, harsh household cleaners and chemical sprays, as these may remove or damage the aged patina.
If wax drips onto the surface, allow it to cool and harden before lifting it away gently with a fingernail or a soft wooden tool. Do not scrape aggressively.
Where should I display it?
This dragon candle holder works particularly well as a centrepiece on a dining table, console or mantelpiece. It can also be displayed on an altar, in a study, library or cabinet of curiosities, or alongside Chinese ceramics, Buddhist art and other Asian decorative objects.
When displayed, make sure it rests on a level surface and that there is sufficient clear space above and around the candle cups.
The Chinese dragon is a testament to the enduring power of myth and symbolism in art.
Through the artistry of the Chinese dragon, we glimpse the profound connection between cultural heritage and artistic expression, a connection that has enriched Chinese SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We have been offering Asian Art for many years and are proud of the reputation we have developed for fair and honest listings. However, if for any reason, whatsoever, you are unhappy with your purchase please just let us know and we will provide a full refund. We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.
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The majority of orders will be shipped with DHL. This is a secure, express and fully tracked service.
Items less than 2Kg we typically ship using Royal Mail.
Once we receive your order we try to ship all orders the same or next working day.
Large and/or fragile pieces requiring palletising, specialist crating and/or extra packaging may take a little longer. Palletised shipments will be delivered curbside.
All orders over 35 GBP will be shipped free of charge.
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We genuinely hope that all purchases delight.
However, if they do not, regardless of reason, we will refund all orders upon receipt of the unwanted item. Just notify us within 14 days of receiving your order that you wish to make a return and send the piece back to us with 30 days of delivery.
