Splint or rushlight holder

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This wrought iron holder for rushlights or splints of wood is from Tarry Croys at Keith in Banffshire. It dates from the 18th century.

The holder has a vertical bar which would have been fixed into the wall. There are three movable arms so that the field of light can be moved, and a spring-loaded grip for holding the splint or rushlight.

Rushlights were made of rushes which were stripped of their outer layers, leaving a pith which was wound into a wick and possibly dipped in fat.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-103-520-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  H.MGC 6
• Date: 18th century
  
• Material: Iron
  Rushlight holder
  
• Dimensions: Upright 7.10"; strips 6.60", 8.30", 15.00"; L upright 21.80" L
  
• What: Rushlight holder
  
• Subject: Lighting - lightholders and stands (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Banffshire, Keith, Tarry Croys
  
• Event:
• Description: Rushlight holder of iron, consisting of an upright and an arm on an extending wrought iron bracket, 18th century
  
• References:
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