Medieval candlemakers used a variety of materials to make candles, including beeswax, tallow, and bayberry wax.
Beeswax was the most expensive and highly prized material, as it produced the cleanest-burning and longest-lasting candles. Tallow, which was made from animal fat, was a more affordable alternative and was used to produce candles for everyday use.
To make candles, the candlemaker would first melt the wax or tallow in a pot or cauldron over a fire. Once the material was melted, the wick would be dipped into the wax or tallow and then hung up to dry.
This process would be repeated multiple times, with the candlemaker building up layer upon layer of wax or tallow on the wick to create the final candle.
Pots or cauldrons for melting wax or tallow
Ladles for scooping and pouring melted wax
Wick rods for shaping and centering the wick
Scissors or shears for cutting wicks to length
Wick trimmers for trimming the wick to the proper length
Molds made of metal, clay, or other materials for shaping the candles
Candle pins or needles for holding the wick in place during dipping or pouring
Tongs for handling hot molds or other hot objects
Scrapers or knives for smoothing and shaping the surface of the candle
Polishing cloths or brushes for finishing the surface of the candle.
These tools were often simple and made of basic materials such as wood, iron, or clay. Candlemakers would have to rely on their skill and experience to produce high-quality candles with these basic tools.
Medieval candlemakers were highly skilled and were often members of powerful guilds. These guilds would regulate the production of candles and ensure that only the highest quality products were produced.
Candlemakers would also be responsible for testing the candles to ensure that they burned cleanly and evenly.
“Candle making was a skilled trade in medieval times, with chandlers forming powerful guilds and working to produce the highest quality candles from materials like beeswax and tallow.”
Kelly DeVries, medieval historian
In addition to their use as a source of light, candles had many other uses in medieval society. They were used in religious ceremonies and were often placed on altars or used to light the way during processions. They were also used for practical purposes, such as in the kitchen or for heating irons.
The art of chandlery also played an important role in the economy of medieval towns and cities. Many towns had specialized markets or fairs where candlemakers would sell their wares.
These markets were often lively and bustling affairs, with candlemakers competing to sell the best and most beautiful candles.
“The art of chandlery was a complex and highly regulated craft in medieval times, with candle makers producing candles for a wide range of uses, from practical lighting to religious ceremonies. Candle making guilds were powerful organizations that controlled the production and sale of candles in many medieval towns.”
Ronald Hutton, historian and author of “The Rise and Fall of Merry England”
In addition to selling their candles, chandlers would also offer other services to their customers. They would often be called upon to make candles for special occasions, such as weddings or funerals. They would also be responsible for repairing or replacing candles that had been damaged or had burned down too far.
“Candles were an essential source of light in the Middle Ages, and the craft of chandlery was crucial for producing them. Candle makers were highly skilled artisans who played an important role in the economy and society of medieval towns and cities.”
Ruth Goodman, historian and author of “How to Be a Tudor”
The role of the candlemaker and chandler in medieval society was an important one. Their products provided a vital source of light and heat, and their expertise was highly valued.
Today, the art of chandlery is still practiced by a small number of artisans, who continue to use traditional techniques to create beautiful and high-quality candles.
In conclusion, the medieval candlemaker and chandler played an important role in the economy and society of the Middle Ages.
Their expertise and skill were highly valued, and their products were essential for providing light and heat to people in a time before electricity. Today, the art of chandlery continues to thrive, preserving the traditions and techniques of this ancient craft.