Keisarinna candle holder by Kaija Aarikka

Large vintage Keisarinna candle holder designed by Kaija Aarikka for Aarikka. Introduced in 1969, Keisarinna, meaning “Empress”, became one of the distinctive sculptural designs associated with Aarikka and Finnish wooden craft.

The substantial form rises through a sequence of rounded oak elements, with two bands of wooden beads around the lower section. Above them, the turned central body leads to a broad brass candle tray. The warm grain of the oak and polished golden metal create a rich combination, the strong symmetry gives the piece an almost architectural presence.

Keisarinna Design

Circular forms and wooden beads were central elements in Kaija Aarikka’s design language. Here they are used on a much larger scale, giving the candle holder a ceremonial quality and preserving the simplicity of Scandinavian modern design.

The broad brass tray accommodates a candle up to approximately 10 cm in diameter. Even without a candle, the piece works naturally as a decorative object and has enough scale to become a focal point on a table, sideboard or mantel.

Details

Designer: Kaija Aarikka
Maker: Aarikka
Model: Keisarinna, “Empress”
Country: Finland
Date: circa 1970s
Material: Oak and brass
Colour: Natural wood and gold tone brass
Made in Finland

Height: 22 cm
Diameter: 12 cm
Suitable candle diameter: up to 10 cm

Marked: Aarikka Finland

Condition

Good vintage condition with visible traces of use and age. The brass tray shows surface wear and patina, consistent with its vintage character.