Candlestick c. 1937

This is a drawing of a candlestick by Philip Johnson. The simple candle holder is depicted as an object of utility and also a potent symbol. The candle, from antiquity to modernity, represents enlightenment amidst darkness. Think of the menorah, whose kindling is a ritual invocation of divine presence and guidance. This symbol crosses cultural boundaries and transcends time. Its presence throughout history—from ancient Roman oil lamps to medieval church candles—reveals humanity’s eternal quest for knowledge and understanding. Light, even today, is used as a symbol for knowledge. Consider how the gesture of lighting a candle or holding a flame can evoke emotional states, from hope to mourning. The play of light and shadow around the candlestick engages our collective memory and resonates with shared human experiences. It's a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Thus, the candlestick is not merely an object, but a vessel of collective memory, its symbolism constantly renewed through the ages.