Mikasa Germany Lead Crystal Candle Holders Pair Starburst Foil Label with Box

A pair of Mikasa lead crystal candle holders in a radiating starburst form, each cut and moulded so that a ring of pointed spikes flares out from a ribbed cup on a short foot. One holder retains its gold foil label reading MIKASA GERMANY. The original white Mikasa carton is included. Mikasa sourced its crystal from established European glasshouses rather than making it, and the German pieces are full lead crystal, which is glass with a high lead oxide content. The lead does two things: it softens the melt so the glass can be pressed into a complex shape like this without tearing, and it raises the refractive index so cut facets throw more light. That is the entire logic of the starburst design. Every spike is a prism, so a single candle in the centre is multiplied outward across the table. Condition is very good. Both holders are clear and bright with no chips found at the spike tips, which is where damage normally appears on this form, and no cracks or bruises in the bodies. The foil label on one piece is intact. The carton is present with light shelf wear and soiling. Measured against a rule each holder stands about three inches tall.