Images(2)

Chandelier

DateCa. 1760

OriginEngland

MediumWood (deal?), metal rods, gesso and gilt.

DimensionsOH: 43"; DIam.: 38 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-821

DescriptionChandelier: Metal ring at top screwed into five-sided, heavily scrolled, assymetrical unit which resenbles a lantern; underneath this is a three-sided scrolled plinth from which depends three large open scrolls which enclose three attached open inner scrolls and a florid pendant. These scrolls support the base section, from which springs six heavily scrolled arms, carved with leaves and flowers, and which terminate in assymetrical (detachable) candle cup units (replaced), which are shaped like a four-sided lantern, and which resemble the unit at top. Base is heavily carved and scrolled; at its three corners are C-scrolls which face outwards. Below this is a small, assymetrically carved pendant. Whole of wooden chandelier gessoed and gilt. Color uniform; antique gilding.
Label TextAsymmetry is an important feature of rococo design, but very few English objects exhibit that quality to the fullest. This chandelier is among the exceptions, with stylized interpretations of shell, rock, and scroll motifs. Lit by flickering candles, it almost appeared to move.

Thomas Chippendale suggested in his 1762 design book that chandeliers “if neatly done in Wood, and gilt in burnished Gold would look better, and come much cheaper” than brass or glass examples. This chandelier has a history of use at Benningborough Hall in Yorkshire, England.
ProvenanceCame from Beningborough Hall, Yorkshire, England.