Clip-on Ornaments
The majority of antique clip-on ornaments are glass with metal
clips to secure them to the Christmas tree branches. Besides glass,
there are also examples made of scraps with spun glass trim, and
composition figures. By far, the most common clip-on ornaments are
birds and there is an astounding variety of different glass birds
that were produced. Mushrooms are also another commonly found ornament
in a clip-on. A number of ornaments that were produced with the typical
metal cap were also produced as clip-ons although in much smaller numbers.
Clip-on ornaments come in 4 primary styles, and are detailed in the
photos on the right:
1. A combination clip-on and candleholder, with the ornament hanging below (pear).
2. A clip-on with the ornament on top (owl).
3. A clip-on which could either be placed with the ornament on top or below (walnut).
4. A combination clip-on and candleholder, with a fitted shade. The candle would be then placed inside (glass shade).
Clip-on ornaments that doubled as candleholders frequently are found with wax drippings either on the metal clip or the glass.
In general this does not detract from the ornament and should be left as is, a wonderful reminder of the era when candles were used
rather than electric lights to illuminate the tree. Antique candles specifically made for the Christmas tree can be found to insert
in the metal candleholder.
Clip-on ornaments are a nice addition for the antique Christmas collector as they can be placed on top
of the branches as well as below, allowing for even more decorations to be on the tree!
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