Flickering candlelight in a room adds a magical touch. If you add silver in the form of candlesticks, the effect of candlelight and silver can be utterly stunning. So while the nights are still dark and cold, here are some ideas to add warmth to your evenings in.

In its current selling exhibition, The London Silver Vaults has an eclectic mix of antique and modern silver candlesticks, candelabra and other devices for carrying the flame into 2012. You can find timeless Georgian elegance like the candlesticks shown here from 1763 through to avant garde contemporary design like this de Vecchi 20th century flourish known as the T8 candelabra.

A cluster of candlesticks works to better effect. Put a string of candlesticks down the centre of a dining table and set these off with tea-lights underneath. But never leave lit candles unattended in a room.

Silver collectors visiting the display will be intrigued by some very unusual pieces such as a rare pair of adjustable candle-holders for the piano, a J Gilbert candle snuffer and tray in Old Sheffield Plate or a really stunning pair of five-light candelabra with a Chinese style bamboo pattern from the turn of the century.
Carrying the Flame runs until mid May 2012. See the catalogue for a list of the exhibits