Description
This exquisitely made, Circa 1880, French, Louis XVI style, yellow gold gilt chandelier is a masterpiece of metalwork full of neoclassical motifs that carry multi-layered symbolism that speaks to the aesthetic, intellectual, and cultural tapestry of meaning woven into the decorative arts of the Louis XVI era.
During the reign of Louis XVI, the neoclassical style, which drew heavily from classical antiquity, embraced the use of mythological and classical motifs in art and design. This included the incorporation of symbols associated with Greek and Roman gods and goddesses, such as the imagery of the quiver and arrows on the body. The association of Louis XVI with the quiver and arrows in art and decorative objects served to align the monarch and his reign with the classical ideals of wisdom, artistry, and noble pursuits associated with Apollo, the god of light, knowledge, and the arts. The representation of the regal lady face with the feather on her head is thought to represent the Classical Greek or Roman goddess Athena or Minerva. And the acanthus leaves throughout the body and arms symbolized immortality for the Greeks and Romans.
Each arm has acanthus leaves that spread from the torch-like ornament at the top, while small etchings of heavenly stars cover the arms entirely. The bobeches reflect the acanthus leaf style and hold frosted glass shades that resemble Vulcan’s flames. The stem has detailed frieze etchings of fleur-de-lis within a diamond.
This is a rare and opulent chandelier that brightens any room with the glories of antiquity and features the famous symbols and ornaments of the French Louis XVI court.
This chandelier is rewired to meet US electrical standards. It takes three candelabra-size bulbs, incandescent or LED. It comes with three frosted glass shades. It requires a canopy and chain which is not included.
H= 22 in. (without canopy and chain) W=15.5 in. D= 15.5 in. 10 lbs.
