The STOFF Nagel candle holder, originally launched in the late 1960s, achieved significant success and transformed the Nagel family business. This iconic piece, designed by Werner Stoff for Hans Nagel, became a symbol of Scandinavian minimalism and creative expression. However, until recently, it was unavailable in stores. In 2015, Danish design company STOFF Copenhagen revived this timeless design, using Werner Stoff’s original drawings to ensure authenticity. The relaunch not only brought the candle holder back to prominence but also expanded the collection to include vases, bowls, stands, and more, allowing for endless modular combinations and artistic possibilities.
The origin of this design marvel traces back to post-WWII Germany. The Nagel family, grappling with the destruction in Cologne, repurposed American brass cartridge cases into everyday items like ashtrays and vases. This legacy fueled Hans Nagel’s ambition to pursue design, leading to a fateful encounter with Werner Stoff in the 1960s.
Werner Stoff, an architect and artist renowned for his rounded, cornerless designs, met Hans Nagel in Cologne’s vibrant design community. Their partnership was sparked by a shared love for art and good design. Stoff brought a unique vision to their collaboration. His approach to design emphasized simplicity and fluidity, which complemented Nagel’s desire to create beautiful dinner table items.
The iconic candle holder design was inspired by a serendipitous moment during a skiing trip in the Alps. Nagel, after accidentally falling backward, created three perfect finger holes in the snow while trying to break his fall. This image of the three holes stuck with him, and he shared his vision with Stoff. Together, they conceptualized a candle holder with three legs and room for three slim candles, embodying the elegance and simplicity of that moment in the snow.
Manufacturing these pieces involved meticulous metalwork, initially in chrome and later in solid brass and black finishes. The process highlighted the elegance of simple yet functional forms, allowing users to engage with the designs creatively. Each relaunch, whether the STOFF Nagel vase in 2019 or the black chrome edition in 2022, maintained this ethos, combining historical accuracy with contemporary flair.
The reintroduction of these designs by STOFF Copenhagen involved careful adherence to the original 1960s drawings, ensuring each piece retained its authentic charm. This attention to detail is evident in the intricate modular systems that define the collection, allowing for personalized artistic expression. Each item stands as a testament to design ingenuity.
Today, the STOFF Nagel collection continues to evolve, with new additions like the bronzed brass candle holder and vase. These pieces, created through an oxidation process, add a unique patina, further enhancing their sculptural quality. The relaunch of the BMF candle holder and vase underscores the brand’s commitment to reviving classic designs while encouraging new interpretations.
