chandelier

Mediummetal, paint

Dimensionschandelier: 36 1/4 × 17 1/4 × 17 1/4 in. (92.1 × 43.8 × 43.8 cm)
socket plate, each: 3/4 × 5 in. (1.9 × 12.7 cm)

ClassificationsFurnishings

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of the family of Irwin and Barbara Roberts

Object numberPC2014.29.5.A-E

DescriptionThis metal candle chandelier is suspended by a bell-shaped canopy with an attached chain, and includes five arms with evenly spaced electric-light holders. The upper chain holds in place a gold-colored scroll attachment that features two swirled embellishments towards the top. Attached below this are the five arms, each with an inwards-curved, swirled embellishment at the top, and a metal flower in the center, pointing downwards. A spiralled, vertical metal rod goes through the upper flower, while also passing through a second metal flower towards the bottom. A brass-colored, bell-shaped portion sits underneath the lower flower, followed by a small decorative finial. The arms protrude outwards, creating an elongated "bubble"-like effect. A small metal flower is attached to the center of all five arms, just above the larger flower-shaped electric light shades at the bottom. The flower-shaped light shades are reddish-bronze-colored and lie relatively flat, with one of the five missing. Leaf embellishments sit underneath each of the shades, pointing upwards. The arms on which the flowers sit extend further down, encompassing a swirled embellishment on each end, mirroring the design from the chandelier's top portion. Upon further analysis of the chandelier's design, its features allude to being categorized under the Spanish Revival style, popularized during the early twentieth century, and characterized by the inclusion of scroll and swirl-like elements, rustic yet durable craftsmanship, and the inclusion of organic, nature-inspired motifs. Additionally, the Art Nouveau movement, popularized around 1890 through the early twentieth century, likely contributed to the light fixture's style through its shared key characteristics of handcrafted construction, idyllic essence, and organic shapes and motifs. Given these characteristics, this chandelier might have been displayed in the home or a public space, fostering a rustic yet opulent and warm environment.

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