Because households of the day were lit by oil lamps and candles, Victorian candles often made from tallow or whale blubber had wicks that didn't burn away, so the cotton wicks needed to be frequently trimmed in order to keep the flame a reasonable size. 

Victorian wick trimmer and candle snuffer in silver plate. This fine example would have been used in a reasonably well-off household. 

In reasonable condition, some minor wear to the plate. 

Measures: 17.5cm in length