Shaded candlesticks like these were frequently used in entrance halls and other high traffic areas since the shades protected the flames from drafts. The grapevine decoration engraved on the shades was a popular motif in lighting fixtures of the period and is often seen on the fonts of oil lamps. Related to Bacchus, the grape motif blends well with other designs of the Grecian period.

Seemingly of an early date because of the manner in which they are constructed, the candlesticks have bases of pressed glass. Such bases were among the first items to be made of pressed glass in this country and are also found on lamps, compotes, and other forms. They were produced by pouring molten glass into a metal mold and then stamping the central impression with a plunger. Later, the baluster-shaped portions of the candlesticks were blown in a mold and affixed to the bases, while hot, using glass wafers. The undersides of the candlesticks' bases retain pontil marks from this joining process.