Old West & Native American Auction
Lot 1384:
Description
An exceptional example of a Sticking Tommy Miners Candlestick holder. A genuine piece of early American hard-rock mining history, likely dating from the Candlelight Era (c. 1865-1915). Hand-forged from wrought iron, this implement served as the essential personal lighting device for miners before the widespread adoption of carbide and electric lamps. Its clever, utilitarian design is evident: the long, pointed spike allowed the holder to be driven into wooden shoring timbers or rock crevices in the mine wall, while the loop at the base served as a handle for carrying or potentially hooking onto a cap or timber. The item includes a heavily patinated tallow-style candle. The holder displays a deep, oxidized patina, surface wear, and pitting characteristic of a genuine, well-used artifact. It is structurally solid, retaining its sharp point and functional candle cup, and is a fascinating link to the Gold Rush and Western expansion era. H 8″, W 2.25″, (measurements are for the candlestick holder without the candle).
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