A French six-light chandelier in the Empire taste, in gilt brass with a dark green patinated sphere at its center. The sphere is banded in gilt and topped with a fluted urn and pinecone finial, with a cast drop of fruit and leaves below. Six scaled, swan-necked arms curve out from ribbed collars around the band. Each one sweeps up into a candle arm with a gadrooned bobèche, and its lower end turns down into a swan’s head with an open beak. Swans were a favorite motif of the Empire period, beloved by the Empress Joséphine. The chandelier hangs from three chains, and the contrast of dark sphere and warm gilt gives it a strong, graphic presence. It suits a dining room, an entry, or a library.
- Style: French Empire style
- Age: Mid-20th century
- Material: Gilt brass, patinated metal
- Details: Swan-head arms with scaled necks, ribbed collars, gilt-banded sphere, fluted urn with pinecone finial, fruit drop, gadrooned bobèches, three hanging chains
- Configuration: Six lights
- Dimensions: 22"W × 33"H
- Condition: Good vintage condition with wear to the gilt and patina consistent with age, and light rubbing to the sphere. Professionally rewired to American standards.
