Vintage Artwork Reimagined by Retrovert Candles

There’s a quiet kind of magic in old art: the faded ink on an antique botanical print, the swirl of a 19th-century engraving, the bold geometry of early Modernist patterns. Each piece carries a story, whispered across time, waiting to be rediscovered.

At Retrovert Candles, that story doesn’t stay locked in museums and archives, it’s reborn through scent, texture, and the soft flicker of candlelight. Timeless elegance meets modern craftsmanship.

The Beauty of Rediscovery

We live in a world obsessed with the next new thing, but there’s something deeply comforting about what has already stood the test of time. Vintage design invites us to slow down, and to appreciate the care and patience that once defined craftsmanship.

Each Retrovert candle begins as a piece of history unearthed: a forgotten textile, a restored art print, or an old-world motif found deep in public archives. These artworks, once hidden in books or museum drawers, are thoughtfully reimagined for modern life, transforming each candle into a miniature work of art. Lighting one feels a bit like lighting the past but bringing it back to life. 

Timeless Elegance, Modern Craftsmanship

While our designs draw from history, our methods are rooted in the present. Every candle is hand-poured in small batches using sustainable, non-GMO coconut–apricot wax, which is a clean, non-toxic luxurious wax that burns evenly and beautifully.

We use only cotton wicks, phthalate- and paraben-free fragrances, and only American-sourced materials, because we believe true elegance shouldn’t come at the expense of your health or the planet.

The result is a candle that’s every bit as thoughtful as it is beautiful: eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and pet-safe, a modern little work of art made for everyday living.

When Art Becomes Atmosphere

Each Retrovert candle is born from a rediscovered artwork, a genuine piece of design history. From the organic flourishes of Art Nouveau to the bold geometry of Art Deco, every era speaks in its own visual language. Together, they form a candle collection that feels both historic yet modern.

Arts & Crafts:
Born as a response to industrialization, this movement celebrated nature, handcraft, and honest materials. You’ll see its influence in our organic patterns with flowing vines, stylized leaves, and symmetrical florals that honor craftsmanship and the beauty of simplicity.

Art Nouveau:
Romantic, sinuous, and inspired by the natural world, Art Nouveau is instantly recognizable in its graceful curves and botanical motifs. These designs transform our labels into miniature works of art, echoing the elegance of stained glass, mosaic, and fine illustration.

Art Deco:
Glamorous and geometric, Art Deco brings a sense of refinement and sophistication. Clean lines, symmetry, and metallic accents reflect an age of optimism and design innovation, perfect for candles that exude modern elegance with a hint of vintage grandeur.

Modern & Abstract:
Mid-Century modernism and abstract expressionism ushered in a new appreciation for bold simplicity and emotion through color and form. Our modern-inspired labels borrow from these movements with confident shapes, minimalist palettes, and a sense of visual rhythm.

Classic:
This broad category captures the essence of timeless artistry, from the intricate borders of illuminated manuscripts and the harmony of Renaissance design to the romantic brushwork of the Impressionists and the nostalgic charm of Americana. These labels embody grace, storytelling, and a reverence for enduring beauty.

Bringing the Past to Light

To “bring the past to light” is our philosophy. It means celebrating the artistry that came before us, while crafting something meaningful for the present.

When you bring a Retrovert candle into your home, you’re not just purchasing a candle. You’re welcoming a piece of history into your home as you help us “Bring the Past to Light,” one candle at a time.