The Worshipful Company of Wax Chandlers is one of oldest of the 108 Livery Companies of the City of London. It ranks twentieth in the order of precedence of Livery Companies after the ruling in 1515 by the Lord Mayor of London, Sir William Boteler.
Although in existence prior to this (at least prior to 1330 when they were invited to make a contribution to Edward III), the organisation was more formally established in 1358 by the granting of by-laws and ordinances by the then Lord Mayor (John Stodeye) and the Court of Aldermen. New ordinances were issued in 1371 and the company received a Royal Charter in 1484 - one of only two known Royal Charters of King Richard III.
The company was granted arms by Sir Thomas Holme, Clarenceux King of Arms, on 3 February 1485 and supporters were added in 1530. The company's motto is "Truth Is The Light". The company is currently governed under a 1663 Royal Charter of King Charles II and by Ordinances of 1664.
The Wax Chandlers, or merchants in beeswax products, traditionally traded separately from the Worshipful Company of Tallow Chandlers - beeswax candles were customary in churches and in the homes of royalty and the nobility, while tallow candles were generally used in ordinary homes.
As is the case with most other Livery Companies, the Wax Chandlers' Company is no longer a trade association of wax candle makers. Instead it exists as a ceremonial and charitable institution: it is Patron of the National Honey Show and the British Beekeeping Association and awards an annual "Wax Prize" to the value of €5,000 to support innovation in the design or use of waxes.
The Company has had a hall at 6 Gresham Street, London since 1501. The Wax Chandlers' current hall is the sixth and was substantially rebuilt in 1954 after damage during World War II - now refurbished, it is available to hire for special events. It may be visited by prior booking during London Open House Weekend. The Hall is looked after by the company's beadle.
The Wax Chandlers' Company comprises Freemen and Liverymen and is governed by the Master Wax Chandler, two Wardens (the Upper Warden and the Renter Warden) and its Court of Assistants. These are elected annually at the Election Court in June and installed ceremonially in office on the first Thursday in August. The Company is administered by the Clerk.
Read more about Worshipful Company Of Wax Chandlers: Arms
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