An ancient shape - the rushlight holder. Never mass-produced these simple iron shapes were produced by local craftsmen and blacksmiths, the earliest recorded piece in 1693. Rushlights were still found in use in Wales until mid 20th Century. This piece seen in Plas Mawr, Conwy. One of Aesop's Fables "the vain rushlight," describes a personified rushlight bragging that it is more brilliant than the sun, moon and stars. The rushlight is then blown out by a slight breeze. The person who re-lights the rushlight advises it to be more humble. Oil and gesso on board. 23 x 38 cm (34 x 36.5 cm framed)