Candle

Object ID
1996.4.A
Object Name
Candle
Date Created
1900s, 1900
Alternative Name
wedding candles
Medium
Wax
Material
Silk
Object Entities
Marlas, Helen (collected by)
Sillas, John and Paraskeve (owned by)
Marlas, Helen (is related to)
Related Items
Object Description
Wedding candle decorated with ivory silk ribbons and beadlike floral decoration attached by wire. One of a pair. Silk ribbons have ivory on ivory design of ribbons and flowers. Candle originally cast to have decorative texture on its surface.
Origin
Decorated wedding candles are an essential component of the Orthodox wedding. They are used throughout the service and - at various times - held by the bride and groom. Two candles are tradionally tied together with a ribbon to symbolize the union of the couple.

The ceremony starts as the Bride and Groom are each handed the white candles to symbolize their willingness to accept Christ into their lives. These candles are to be provided by the The Koumbaro who is like a "best man." Traditionally, the koumbaros was the groom's godfather. In traditional Greek weddings, the koumbaro's role is highly symbolic, and his duties are many.
Rights and Reproduction
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Citation
Candle, 1900s, 1900, National Hellenic Museum, https://collections.nationalhellenicmuseum.org/Detail/objects/6229. Accessed 04/16/24.