Ormolu And Crystal Nine-arm Cage Chandelier, French, 18th Century

Ormolu and Crystal Nine-Arm Cage Chandelier, French, 18th Century

Description:

This cage-form chandelier features an ormolu frame.

The upper section is formed by a crown of scrolling arms, hung with rosettes and plaquettes.

The center of the chandelier is composed of a stack of cut crystal stems, forming the column of the cage.

The nine shaped light arms carry ormolu drip pans and nozzles. Nine interior lights, set in crystal cups added during a 20th-century restoration, complete the lighting. Six cut crystal spires, three small ones above and three larger ones below, punctuate the frame.

The chandelier is richly hung with large cut crystal plaquettes, some in smoky tones, as well as rosettes and stars. It terminates in a cut crystal ball.

The cage form, with its light frame, is characteristic of French chandeliers of the 18th century. Its number of lights and the abundance of its crystal make it a chandelier of notable scale.

Technique:

Chased ormolu frame with nine light arms and nine interior lights. Stacked cut crystal central stems. Six cut crystal spires. Cut crystal plaquettes, some in smoky tones, rosettes, and stars. Cut crystal ball finial. French work, 18th century.

Dimensions:

Height: 46 1/16 in (117 cm)

Diameter: 29 1/2 in (75 cm)

Condition:

Good condition. Interior light cups added during a 20th-century restoration. Wired for electricity, ready for installation.