What is the history of candles? Candles have been part of human history for centuries — from their humble beginnings as a source of light to their modern role as decorative objects, luxury home fragrance, and personal ritual. The earliest known candles were made from natural materials such as beeswax and tallow, and were used as early as 200 BC by the Chinese.
The Origins of Candle Making
It was the Romans who made significant advances in candle making, introducing wicks made from cotton and flax that greatly improved the quality and longevity of candles. Candles remained an essential source of light for centuries — serving everything from reading and working to religious ceremonies and rituals. The word “candle” itself comes from the Latin word candela, meaning “to shine.”
Candles as Decorative Objects
As the centuries passed, candles evolved beyond their practical function into decorative objects used to create ambiance and add elegance to homes and events. It was not until the 20th century, however, that candles became an integral part of home décor — thanks in part to the development of new materials and fragrances that made them more appealing as objects in their own right.
Candles also became a means of self-expression. People began choosing scents and designs that reflected their individual style and taste. They were used to mark special occasions — birthdays, weddings, holidays — and given as gifts to express love, appreciation, or condolences. Over time, they became more than functional objects. They became part of how people shaped the feeling of a space.
Candles Today: Art, Fragrance, and Ritual
Today, candles continue to be a beloved part of our lives and homes. They have evolved into an art form, with candle makers pushing the boundaries of design and fragrance to create unique and captivating products. From classic scents like lavender and vanilla to more complex blends like sandalwood and patchouli, there is a candle for every mood and occasion. What was once a practical necessity is now also part of luxury home fragrance, interior design, and personal ritual.
As we light our candles and enjoy their fragrance and design, we create memories in our homes — of special moments shared with loved ones, of quiet evenings spent alone, of the warmth and comfort that only a candle can provide. The humble candle continues to hold a special place in our hearts and homes, bridging the past, present, and future of fragrance, design, and everyday ritual.
Explore the Thompson Ferrier collection → — luxury candles designed to be part of your home’s story.
Quick Answers: The History of Candles
When were candles first used?
The earliest known candles date to around 200 BC in China, where they were made from beeswax and tallow. The Romans later advanced candle making significantly by introducing cotton and flax wicks, which improved burn quality and longevity. Candles remained the primary source of artificial light until the widespread adoption of electricity in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Where does the word “candle” come from?
The word “candle” comes from the Latin word candela, meaning “to shine.” It entered the English language through Old French and has been used in its current form since at least the 8th century.
How did candles evolve from practical tools to luxury objects?
As electricity replaced candles as a light source, candles shifted from necessity to choice. They became associated with ambiance, ritual, and self-expression — chosen for their fragrance, design, and the atmosphere they create rather than their function. By the 20th century, candles had become an integral part of home décor and luxury home fragrance, a role they continue to hold today.
What makes a modern luxury candle different from historical candles?
Modern luxury candles are developed with trained perfumers, premium fragrance compounds, and carefully selected wax and wick combinations designed to optimize scent throw and burn performance. The vessels are designed as decorative objects in their own right. Thompson Ferrier candles, for example, carry a 16–18% fragrance load — more than double the industry standard — and are crafted to fill a room with fragrance even when unlit.
For more on the craft and culture of candles, read the art of fragrance, crafting timeless candle vessels, and why we work with a perfumer and not a catalog.
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