1930s French 3-Light Modernist/Art Deco Chandelier -- Asymmetrical, Geometrical

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The French are no strangers to the importance of asymmetrical design! This solidly 1930s chandelier beautifully illustrates the power of … Read more The French are no strangers to the importance of asymmetrical design! This solidly 1930s chandelier beautifully illustrates the power of asymmetry.

The shades are made of clear glass with frosted elements; so where the frosting is, the glass appears white. The three "rings" on each shade are clear glass and sparkle when an incandescent bulb is employed.

You'll notice the excellent use of geometry, hallmark to the Art Deco and Moderne design eras. The stepped canopy (about 5 1/4 inches across, thereby easily hiding even the largest electrical box) truly guides the viewer's eye to the visual feast below (yes, that would be the three shades).

The fixture hangs about 26 long and has a diameter of about 7 1/2 inches. As you can see in the last photo the one hanging rod has a dent just above the chromed socket cap. Whereas all the metal is brass, which has been chrome-plated, there is some damage to the chrome plating, particularly on the canopy, which has a large number of little black dots. An attempt has been made to polish these off but they're too stubborn to be removed. At a distance they aren't particularly bothersome to this eye. The shades are in perfect original condition.

The fixture has been rewired and fitted with American candelabra sockets, each capable of employing a 60-watt bulb. These shades are very narrow where they attach to the sockets by a small ring that turns onto the outside of each socket. For safety's sake the three shades will be removed and independently boxed. It's difficult to install the shades because there's so little room at the top of the shades. The French have a tool to do this work, it's called a "pince a douille," and can be purchased independently on the internet. Yes, you can install the rings on the shades without this tool, but having the tool makes the installation a LOT easier!

Once this light is installed in your home, you'll want to send a thank-you note to the designers and craftsmen who created it. Alas, not possible!! See less