Forged Iron Rushlight Late 18th C

This early rushlight holder was blacksmith made.  The center column is twisted. The outer arm ends in a spiral.  The pincers, to hold the rush, are spade shaped. The legs on the  tripod base finish in scrolls.  The rush, sometimes called the 'poor man's candle', was made from the common meadow rush. The peeled stripped rush was dipped in tallow many times and when dry - burned in the holder at a 45 degree angle. 

Approximate Dimensions: Height 10 1/4”.

Condition: Excellent shape. As found. No damage.

Reference: Caspall, 'Making Fire & Light in the Home Pre 1820' p.184