Belle Epoque Louis XV Style 9-Light Gilt Iron & Crystal Chandelier, France, Circa:1875

This beautiful Belle Epoque chandelier started life as an all candle fixture in the 1870’s in Paris. Around 1895 3 electrified crystal encrusted cups were added at the top during the craze by the rich for electric light in France. Years later the candle arms were also electrified, bringing the total number of lights to 9. The open cage frame (a staple of the Louis XV style) is hand hammered and gilded iron with a wide variety of hand-cut French crystal prisms adorning the fixture. Besides transparent crystal there are amethyst and citron accent prisms. Many forms of crystal prisms including beads are on this chandelier, but of special note are the hand-blown components of the stem including a delicate inverted crocus bloom in the middle of the cup lights and a hand-blown and cut column with a cut ball on top in the middle of the candle arms. The size of this fixture is perfect for over a dining table as well as foyer and living room. When lit, the gold frame and the variety of lights and prism colors have a wonderful effect that will enhance any deco. Appropriate ceiling cap, hanging hardware, and one foot of chain included.