A rare 18th c. wooden candle holder in original surface.
Constructed cleverly from the crotch section of a maple tree. This section was cut and removed from the tree and shaped accordingly to form. The limb section has been bored hollow to accomodate a candle. At one point there was originally a wire wrapping accomodating the top to form a hanger and likely was abandoned or had failed (early iron was often brittle). The owner hollowed a hole on the backside with an upper cavity to accomodate hanging on a rosehead nail. Rosehead nails of the period often feature a large cloverleaf head and the owner who bored its reverse hanging hole utilized this for safety of hanging. 
Tree crotches were often chosen in varying sizes for use around a homestead as utilizing their organic strength in reinforcements of homes and barn use was known. The maker took advantage of ease of manufacture and availability for the simple but important daily occurrence of need of light. 
Over two centuries of use and existence  has created desirable surface traits with heavy oxidation in appropriate places including its surmounted hanging hole, candle cup and original mounting area. Excellent original condition with as-expected wear. 
A gem of New England craft and enginuity.
Ca. 1770-1820. 24"T