Identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A striking pair of mid-century modern Brutalist candlesticks featuring a heavily textured, openwork design. Cast in solid brass, these pieces showcase the signature organic, molten aesthetic characteristic of Israeli metalwork from this era.
Story
Produced by Wainberg in Israel during the 1960s and 1970s. The foundry was known for its distinctive Brutalist style, characterized by heavily textured, molten-looking brass and bronze. These pieces often served as Shabbat candlesticks and are representative of the post-war Israeli modernist movement in decorative arts. Mid-century Brutalist metalwork, particularly Israeli Judaica by makers like Wainberg, enjoys steady but niche demand. Buyers are typically looking for striking, sculptural table decor or specific mid-century Judaica.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
The heavy solid brass construction makes these pieces highly durable, so structural damage is rare. Value is primarily affected by the state of the patina—whether it is original and even, or if it has been harshly polished—and the presence of any residual wax or verdigris in the textured crevices.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Mid-century Brutalist metalwork, particularly Israeli Judaica by makers like Wainberg, enjoys steady but niche demand. Buyers are typically looking for striking, sculptural table decor or specific mid-century Judaica. Prices on general resale platforms remain accessible, while curated vintage boutiques can command a premium for well-presented, polished examples.
▲ Complete pair, which is essential for Shabbat candlesticks and highly preferred by decor buyers.
▲ Desirable 10. 5-inch height, as noted by the seller, which commands a slight premium over the smaller 9-inch variants.
▲ Distinctive Brutalist aesthetic aligns strongly with current mid-century modern interior design trends.
▼ Condition of the patina—harsh polishing or active verdigris could reduce buyer interest.
▼ Residual wax buildup in the deep textures may require careful cleaning to present well.
Best Venue
List as a pair on a broad secondary marketplace like eBay or Etsy to reach mid-century decor enthusiasts. Ensure the 'Wainberg Israel' marks are clearly photographed. A light, careful cleaning to remove old wax without stripping the original patina will help maximize the visual appeal for listing.
Upside Potential
If the candlesticks retain an exceptional, untouched original patina and are marketed on a curated vintage design platform with high-quality photography, they could reach the upper retail tier of $150 to $200.