Atlantic Mold Smiley character candle holder

This product is a vintage ceramic tealight or candle holder featuring a 'Smiley' character, a signature whimsical design often associated with Atlantic Mold. Originally developed in the United States during the late 20th century, these figurines became a staple of 'Paint Your Own' ceramic shops and DIY home decor.

Atlantic Mold was a prominent American ceramic mold company based in New Jersey that designed many distinctive character lines, including these rounded, big-nosed 'Smiley' figures often depicted with hats or in various professions. While the original company specialized in the molds themselves, many finished pieces were produced by independent ceramicists or enthusiasts across the country. As of 2026, these items are widely considered vintage collectibles, often found in thrift stores or through antique resellers, representing a nostalgic era of American hobbyist craft.