The Lily candlestick (“Liljan” in Swedish) was designed by the Swedish sculptor Ivar Ålenius-Björk for the world fair in New York in 1939. These candlesticks are common on dining tables and side tables throughout Sweden, but the design is an immediately recognizable classic worldwide.

Its simple, beautiful form inspired the name as it resembles the arched shape of lilies’ petals. These sculptural Lilies, made of polished brass, attract attention and function immediately as marvellous conversation pieces. The design is inherently simple, consisting of two “petals” that open up to the sides. The curving lines are visually and also literally grounded by the circular brass base that shows off the symmetry as well. The dynamic, flowing lines of the brass are quite sculptural which is why the model is placed on tables as a decor object or paperweight even without candles. Interestingly, the design was originally a soliflore (a vase designed to hold a single flower) with a glass tube slipped into the heart of the 2 petals, forming a water reserve to accommodate a flower.

This pair is monogrammed "IÅB" and stamped "Ystad Metall Sweden" on the bottom. Ystad Metall produced numerous classic design items between the 1920s and 60s. These Liljan candlesticks were among these products, and have become design classics that are repeatedly featured in international design magazines to this day.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The brass has a beautiful patina.

Dimensions:

8.46 in W x 3.14 in D x 4.72 in H

21.5 cm W x 8 cm D x 12 cm H

About the designer:

Ivar Johannes Wilhelm Ålenius-Björk was born on the 30^th of August in 1905 in Malmö, and died on the 6th of October in 1978 in Veberöd, Sweden. He was a sculptor and designer, educated in several institutes, including at Malmö city's apprenticeship and vocational school, at Skånska Målarskolan in Malmö and at Den Tekniske Skole and by Olaf Stæhr-Nielsen at the Kunstindustriskolen and Rannow's painting school and studied under Einar Utzon-Frank at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen from 1929 to 1934.

In addition, he went on study trips to Germany, France, Italy and England. After his travels, he periodically worked as an assistant to the sculptors Carl Milles, Ivar Johansson and Stig Blomberg. Individually, he exhibited at Galerie Moderne in Stockholm and SDS-hallen in Malmö, among others. He also participated in collective exhibitions with Scania's art association, Sweden's general art association. Among his public works are a crucifix for St. Lars' church hall in Lund, and a monument to fallen sailors in Malmö, the sculpture Trust at a school in Trelleborg and several portraits and reliefs.

He is perhaps best known as the designer of the candlestick Liljan, which he designed for Ystad-Metall in 1939. Today, Ivar Ålenius-Björk is represented at Malmö Museum and Ystad Art Museum. ~H.