This picture has a bit better detail. You can also see that there is a removable pricket.

So all these pieces screw together. It's entirely possible that there are missing pieces or that we don't even have it put together properly.

I should have mentioned that there are no identifying markings on it at all.

Thanks.

You have it right side up for a candle stick. The largest diameter is the base; the smaller saucer shaped part with pintle is the candle holder. The saucer catches dripped wax.

It appears to be made of low brass (60/40 copper/zinc)

It could have held a hand rolled tallow candle.

It's a brass candlestick for a large pillar candle. You say you think it may be 40 years old? That would put it about 1972? I think that is right on. About that time, large candle holders were popular. It was "the thing" to stand one on the hearth or on a low coffee table. You jammed a pillar candle down onto the spike...or for some that didn't have a spike, you just set a pillar candle on top.

There is also the possibility that it is one of a pair of candlesticks meant to go on the altar or a church. About 1972 I bought at auction a pair of tall brass candle sticks with a convertible top,that could hold either a pillar or a taper.

Are they lacquered or did you polish them?
Linda C