Imagine biting into a slice of warm, buttery toast, only to realize it’s actually a candle. Sounds bizarre, right? But that’s exactly what London-based designer Maggie Yang has brought to life with her hyperrealistic food candles. And this is the part most people miss: these aren’t just any candles—they’re meticulously crafted replicas of everything from a full English breakfast to a wheel of brie, complete with beans, brown sauce, and all the textures you’d expect from the real deal.
Yang’s collection, aptly named Pantler’s Rations, is a feast for the eyes—and, surprisingly, for the senses. But here’s where it gets controversial: these candles are meant to be burned. Yes, you read that right. Yang describes the act of burning these wax masterpieces as ‘incredibly performative,’ turning them from static objects into fleeting experiences. But is there something poetic about creating something so detailed only to destroy it? Or is it just… wasteful? Let us know what you think in the comments.
The process behind these candles is as fascinating as the final product. Yang starts by casting silicone molds directly from real food items, ensuring every crumb, crease, and texture is captured. She then hand-pours the wax, sculpts, paints, and glazes each piece to achieve jaw-dropping realism. ‘From loaves to pies, every item I’ve ‘candlised’ began as a real baked piece,’ Yang explains. ‘I often refine shapes by hand, especially for items like cheese, to ensure they’re as authentic as possible.’
But it doesn’t stop there. Yang tests each candle’s burnability, adjusting wick sizes and placements to make sure they’re functional. Her inspiration? A blend of her passion for crafting representational objects and her research into culinary history. She’s particularly drawn to foods that celebrate culture and craftsmanship, like Ploughman’s pie, Turkish delights, and even cornichon pickles. ‘I’m always looking for the unusual,’ she says, ‘almost like curating a cabinet of curiosity for food objects.’
The name Pantler’s Rations itself is a nod to this craft-centric approach. ‘Pantler,’ an archaic term for a servant in charge of a great house’s pantry and bread, reflects Yang’s fascination with historical trades. ‘Rations,’ she explains, ‘is about savoring and cherishing—a reminder to slow down and appreciate the artistry in both craftsmanship and culinary arts.’
Yang’s latest creation? A full English breakfast candle, complete with eggs, bacon, and baked beans. It’s a bold statement piece that blurs the line between art and utility. Looking ahead, she’s eager to expand her horizons, possibly venturing beyond the pantry into miniature model crafts, folk toys, and even incorporating motion into her designs. ‘This could mean stepping into entirely new realms,’ she teases.
If you’re as intrigued as we are, you’ll want to check out other unconventional candle designs, like Yield’s architect-scented candles or RE-OR’s Interchangeable Candle. But for now, let’s circle back to the question: Would you burn a candle this beautiful? Or is it too much of a masterpiece to destroy? Share your thoughts below—we’re all ears!
