Brass Candle Holder Appraisal

Brass Heart Cutout Votive or Tealight Candle Holder

This item is a brass candle holder, likely designed for a votive or tealight candle. It possesses a goblet-like silhouette with a wide, cup-shaped upper body and a flared, weighted base connected by a short, robust stem. The material appears to be solid brass, exhibiting a warm, aged golden color with significant areas of patination, tarnishing, and some dark spots, particularly visible on the upper 'cup' section. The most distinguishing feature is the series of heart-shaped cutouts that perforate the upper cylindrical portion of the holder, arranged in what appears to be two rows. These cutouts allow light to emanate when a candle is placed inside, creating an attractive decorative effect. The surface shows a moderately polished finish in some areas, contrasting with the heavier tarnish elsewhere, indicating either selective cleaning or natural wear and exposure over time. There are no visible maker's marks, signatures, or specific manufacturing details discernible from the image. The construction seems sturdy and functional. Given the style and material, it likely dates from the mid to late 20th century, possibly earlier, as brass items with cutout patterns were popular for home decor during various periods. The craftsmanship appears to be of decent quality, with smooth edges on the cutouts and a well-formed overall shape, although it is a mass-produced decorative item rather than a unique art piece. The presence of tarnish indicates its age and that it has not been recently polished.