A place where the past meets the present
Candles ā these inconspicuous yet magical objects ā have been part of people's lives for centuries, in their daily lives, religious rituals and evening ceremonies. They have played different roles in different cultures, often reflecting the spirit, character and nature of a particular community. In this entry, we will take a look at candle traditions in Scotland ā a land full of rugged landscapes, a foggy atmosphere and fascinating culture.
Traditions and crafts ā the splendour of past centuries
Before paraffin was invented in the 19th century, candles in Scotland were made from natural animal fat, which was commonly available in almost every household. For the wealthier classes, beeswax candles became a symbol of luxury and prosperity. In Scotland, local candle workshops were small centres of innovation, where people strived to improve manufacturing methods. You can still see that local spirit of craftsmanship and attention to detail today ā handmade products always carry a part of their creator's soul.Ā
Highlands ā functionality meets the magic of light
In the cool and humid climate of the Highlands, candles had to be practical and reliable, sturdy and designed to burn for long winter nights. But candlelight also had a deeper meaning ā it symbolised inner peace, a companion for reflection and conversations by the fireplace. At night, a candle brings a sense of security, a delicate bridge between man and nature, and warmth to any home. Scottish folk beliefs attribute magical powers to candlelight ā it's believed to protect against evil spirits and help maintain harmony in the home.
The beauty of the present day ā the candle as a symbol of atmosphere
These days, while candles aren't as important for lighting as they once were, they've become a symbol of atmosphere, calm and style. When we make our own candles, we're inspired by these old traditions ā by a love of simplicity, nature and craftsmanship. Like the Scots of the Highlands, we believe that every candle should have something special ā a part of our passion, a part of where we come from, and a story that will never lose its glow.
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