Decor

These 14 Candles Look Like Art Pieces

And they’re almost too pretty to burn.

by Grace Gallagher
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Made of 100% stearin wax, these volute candles ($25) come in six shades ranging from classic white to bright teal. They stand six inches tall and will burn for around nine hours.Coming Soon New York
Let these terracotta-colored legs ($75) light up your room. The pair melts slowly and elegantly (if you choose to light them) and it’s cool to watch them change shape with each burn.Dada

These handmade twist candles ($45) come in eye-catching neon colors that will pop wherever you put them. They’re made of paraffin wax and have the look of slim pillar candles, no holder required.

Mociun

Made from 100% beeswax (which is a slow-melting wax due to its high melting point), these beautiful hand-poured bust figures will get drippier and dreamier as they burn. Beyond Interior
Inspired by the longing to be physically together during the COVID-19 pandemic, this soy candle ($73) has an intimate, romantic quality to it. Made by artist Bonam Kim, it will look soothing on a coffee table or mantle.Goldune
Show of hands, who thinks this candle ($65) is amazing? Only four of the fingers are wicked (thumb, index, ring, and pinky) so you’ll get a cheeky surprise as it burns down.Dada
Stacked colorblocked shapes make a major statement in these freestanding pillar candles designed by Lex Pott ($50 for the medium size). They look great on their own or styled together.MoMa
Known as Goober Candles ($24) and made by Brooklyn-based designers, Talbot & Yoon, these candles have an effortless, relaxed quality. The color palette is made of muted pastels, perfect for spring.Burke Decor

You don’t have to choose one solid color for your pillar candles anymore. These color-stacked candles ($28) come in a set of four and they brighten up any room, even when unlit.

MoMA

Bust candles are having a moment and this one from Goldune ($85) stands out because of its color. Not into pink? There’s also lavender, mint, and more, or a male figurine version.Goldune
It’s rare to find a sculptural candle that’s not unscented, but these candles ($30) from Etsy seller ShopSUUS are infused with natural essential oils for an earthy scent that fills a room. These remind me of chess pieces.Etsy
Inspired by altars of ancient mythology, these geometric pastel candles by Octaevo Barcelona ($55) look like art and add a whimsical touch that only looks more beautiful as it burns.Trouva
Chances are your coolest friend has these exact Areaware pillar candles ($16) in their house somewhere. Both classic and modern, they’ll add a memorable yet understated accent, especially when you mix different colors.Areaware
A classic pillar candle gets a modern update thanks to the sculptural shape of this one ($18.37) from Etsy seller, INTERLUDECANDLES. Just note that this one will only burn for approximately 45 minutes, so don’t leave it unattended.Etsy