The six-sided, enameled base of the gilded copper Dornleuchter—named after its tapered spike resembling a thorn—rests on six corners. The individual sides arch slightly upward from the base. A decorative semicircle with engraved leaves adorns the center of each side.

On the six sides, two different gilded copper and enameled coats of arms alternate in red or turquoise enameled quatrefoil cartouches. In the lower section, stylized, gilded copper birds in enameled quatrefoils adorn the six edges of the candlestick base, while coats of arms decorate the upper section. Between them are striding lions. The coats of arms, whose origin is unclear, could be fictional emblems.

The slightly curved wall of the decorative base tapers towards the top and ends with a frieze of engraved vines, on which traces of a turquoise enamel background are visible. The eponymous thorn of the light fixture forms the finishing touch.