This candle-stand called « Cellar-rat » by the French, was a working tool used in all Burgundy wine cellars. Its origin stems from far back in the past. In the year 1000 the monks of the Abbey of Cluny used it already. The rat de cave performed a double function: not only did it light the cellar but also the color of the flame showed an eventual evolving of gases when the wine was undergoing a chemical transformation and warned workers of dangerous conditions when the flame went out.
The shape of this item is very well designed: thanks to its stable flat bottom, it can be readily and safely set upright on any surface. Its handle (the rat’s tail) provides an easy and reliable grip and the hook can be used to hang the stand on a nail in the wall or on the edge of the oak casks. The spiral ramp allows you to control the height of the flame as the candle burns down by simply pushing the small tongue upward or downward, so you can use the candle completely.
This candlestick holder is completely hand made, historic, useful and a beautiful decorative piece. The candles included with the stands are made from natural wax and paraffin. They do not smoke or run and last approximately 7 hours for the small and 36 hours for the large model.
Small rat de cave, including candle - replacement candles available for purchase
