Brass Butterfly Candle Holder Value Guide

This mid-century modern brass butterfly candle holder is a quintessential example of 1960s and 70s Korean export decor. Its stylized form and intricate filigree wings represent the whimsical yet sophisticated aesthetic that defined the era's metalware trends.

What Is Brass Butterfly Candle Holder Worth?

The typical price range for Brass Butterfly Candle Holder is $18 - $20 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of the original 'Made in Korea' foil label significantly preserves the item's provenance and value.
• Condition of the brass, specifically the absence of heavy pitting or deep oxidation, keeps the value near the $20 mark.
• The intricacy and intactness of the delicate filigree wing patterns without bends or breaks.
• The level of original patina versus over-polishing, as many collectors prefer a natural aged luster.

How to Identify Brass Butterfly Candle Holder?

• Look for a 'Made in Korea' or 'Republic of Korea' sticker or stamped mark on the underside of the base.
• Examine the wings for the characteristic open-work filigree patterns typical of 1960s-1970s production.
• Verify the material is solid brass rather than plated zinc by checking for a consistent gold tone and significant weight.
• Check the candle cup size, which should be specifically proportioned to hold a standard 7/8 inch taper candle.

History of Brass Butterfly Candle Holder

During the mid-20th century, brass decorative objects became highly popular in American homes as part of the Mid-Century Modern design movement. Stylized animal forms, particularly butterflies, owls, and roosters, were mass-produced in Korea and Taiwan for export to the Western market, capturing a whimsical yet sophisticated aesthetic that remains a favorite for collectors today.