Twelve-Light Brass Chandelier by Gotthold Schönwandt, Germany, 1960s

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An exceptional and highly sculptural german mid-century church chandelier, circa 1960s, attributed to the renowned metal workshop of gotthold schönwandt … Read more An exceptional and highly sculptural german mid-century church chandelier, circa 1960s, attributed to the renowned metal workshop of gotthold schönwandt in nordeck, germany. The attribution is based on the chandelier’s distinctive construction, materials, exceptional metalworking quality and close correspondence with documented ecclesiastical lighting produced by the schönwandt workshop. Schönwandt is known to have supplied sophisticated handcrafted metal lighting for a number of important german churches during the postwar period. Particularly noteworthy is the chandelier’s direct ecclesiastical provenance. It was acquired directly from the historic hauptkirche beatae mariae virginis (bmv) in wolfenbüttel, germany, one of the city’s most important architectural and historical monuments. The bmv is closely connected with the history of wolfenbüttel as a former ducal residence of the house of welf. Beneath the high choir lies the historic welfengruft (welf crypt), the princely burial place containing the tombs and sarcophagi of generations of the house of welf. This remarkable provenance places the chandelier within an important historic german ecclesiastical and dynastic setting. The chandelier itself is an outstanding example of german postwar metalwork. Its extraordinarily compact yet complex architecture consists of twelve individual light sources arranged across three sculptural tiers. Long cylindrical brass socket covers project from precisely positioned radial arms around a strong geometric central structure. Circular tubes, cylindrical forms, polygonal connecting elements and the square central stem interact to create a remarkably sophisticated architectural composition. Despite accommodating twelve bulbs, the chandelier measures only approximately 40 cm / 15.75 in. In diameter. This unusually concentrated arrangement gives the piece tremendous sculptural presence without requiring an excessively large space. The substantial metal construction displays a magnificent naturally developed dark brass to bronze-toned patina. Rather than being polished away, this original surface has intentionally been preserved, giving the chandelier remarkable depth and character. Its open design also offers an unusual degree of creative freedom. The chandelier accommodates twelve e26/e27 light sources, allowing its appearance to be transformed simply through the choice of bulbs. Minimal clear glass bulbs create a restrained architectural composition; opaline globes provide a softer modernist appearance; larger decorative glass bulbs can make the chandelier dramatically more sculptural; and sophisticated contemporary led or decorative crystal-style bulbs can create an entirely different expression. The visible light sources therefore become an integral part of the design itself. The suspension incorporates a strong internal steel support cable, providing structural support independently of the electrical cable and making the construction particularly substantial. The chandelier is supplied with approximately one meter of its original suspension cable. Upon request, the original cable can be supplied in a length of up to approximately five meters, making the fixture equally suitable for standard interiors or dramatic installations in rooms with exceptionally high ceilings. Dimensions height of chandelier body: 53 cm / 20.87 in. Diameter: 40 cm / 15.75 in. Weight: approximately 3.9 kg / 8.6 lb. Light sources: 12 × e26/e27. The combination of its compact proportions, twelve-light configuration and extraordinary geometric construction makes this chandelier exceptionally versatile. It can work as a dramatic centerpiece above a dining table, in an entrance hall or stairwell, while a longer suspension allows it to become a spectacular architectural feature in a loft, gallery, hotel or double-height interior. Its appearance can range from restrained german modernism to almost brutalist sculpture depending entirely upon the chosen light sources. A rare piece of german ecclesiastical mid-century design combining exceptional craftsmanship, sophisticated modular construction and remarkable historical provenance. Attributed to gotthold schönwandt, werkstatt für metallhandarbeiten, nordeck, germany, circa 1960s. Acquired directly from the hauptkirche beatae mariae virginis (bmv), wolfenbüttel, historic burial church of members of the house of welf.
up to 250v (europe/uk standard).the wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less