An extremely beautiful nineteenth century Louis XV style gilt metal and cut-glass ten-light chandelier, the cage-shaped frame surmounted by a ring of cut-glass drops above a balloon-shaped corona issuing four candle holders above tiers of S-shaped and C-shaped scrolling branches each hung with a profusion of cut-glass drops, the lower part of the cage issuing six outwardly projecting scrolled candle branches, each terminated by an elongated candle holder and circular drip-pan above a swagged ring of variously shaped cut-glass drops and a central and larger cut glass pendant drop, fitted for electricity

Paris, date circa 1870-90

Height 104 cm, diameter 90 cm.

The form of this very beautiful chandelier, commonly known as a cage or birdcage, originated during the reign of Louis XIV and continued to be used throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, although the most typical examples are associated with the Louis XV style. Its name derives from the simplicity of its structure, which takes the form of a cage which, empty inside and devoid of a central stem, creates a lighter and more airy effect. The absence of a central core not only makes them elegant, but practical too since the reduced weight allowed for more imposing chandeliers than in previous eras, while also making them easier to light the individual candles and to transport. 

During the latter half of the nineteenth century there arose a demand for such chandeliers but owing to their delicacy and scarcity of original protypes, artisans throughout Europe began recreating examples based on earlier styles. The present chandelier, which has subsequently been fitted for electricity, is a very fine example. The overall effect of alternate S and C-shaped scrolled branches that make up the cage like frame looks back to Rococo designs from the Louis XV period during the first half of the eighteenth century.