Composition : 99.99% fine silver
Mintage : 10 000

The Triumph of Light

No matter how tiny, even the smallest pinprick of light can ward off darkness. For thousands of years, the flickerof candlelight has served to calm, connect and comfort humanity. Around this miniscule light we have long gathered, united in community, joined against the cold dark of winter, bondedin the joyful reminder that light and renewal always follow even the gloomiest of seasons. Before there were candles, therewas fire; perhaps it is here in ourearliest moments as a communal species that we learned to circle together around the protective flame.

Humans have practiced chandlery for thousands of years. The earliest examples of candles are found in Asia, where they were fashioned using rice paper wicks and wax from various sources, including insects, nuts and whale fat.

In some parts of Europe and the Middle East, where combustibles like olive oil were plentiful, people used oil lamps for night-time light, and candles came much later - although candle use probably took hold earlier in northern Europe, where olive oil was rare and expensive.

In Europe, chandlery began in earnest in the Middle Ages. By the 14th century, chandlery guilds were well established throughout the continent. Early candles were made primarily from rendered animal fat, called tallow, although beeswax was another important wax source. Despite the unpleasant odour of tallow candles and relative expense of beeswax candles, candleuse became so popular that it gave rise to candle-centered holiday traditions, such as Candlemas.

Candles were readily integrated into religious practice throughout Europe and in many other cultures. Their symbolic value asa light against the darkness of night or winter, and their utilitarian importancein extending human productivity, lendsthem a poignancy that resonates to this day.

During the long dark months of the Canadian winter, millions of Canadian Light candle to relieve doldrums, welcome guest, celebrate religious and cultural festival and bring the soft, warm beauty of candlelight into their homes.
 

HOLIDAY CANDLES - 2013 CANADIAN COINS is categorised COINS AND PAPER MONEY / 08- ROYAL CANADIAN MINT / 25- WINTER and sold by l'Imaginaire, a store and specialised website.