Object Description
Very large antique red and green overlay glass chandelier by Baccarat
French, Late 19th Century
Height 210cm, diameter 135cm
Towering at over two metres in height, this magnificent 19th-century chandelier is a testament to Baccarat’s extraordinary artistry and technical prowess.
Baccarat’s global appeal grew rapidly during the 19th century, especially in Asia, where European decorative arts became increasingly fashionable. The company fulfilled high-profile commissions for aristocrats, including Jayajirao Scindia, Maharaja of Gwalior (1835–1886). The stylistic cues found in this chandelier indicate it may have been conceived for a similar audience in the Indian subcontinent, merging Western design sophistication with Eastern flair.
A cascade of glass artistry begins at the top with a band of finely sculpted, star-like finials. Beneath this, floral glass elements encircle the structure, interspersed with glittering droplets and strings of delicate beads that lend a sense of rhythmic movement. From a wide, rounded dish emerge scrolling and swirling glass arms, each one embellished with star-shaped crystal ornaments. This tiered motif repeats lower down, guiding the eye gracefully toward the centrepiece of the chandelier.
The main body of the chandelier is rich with decorative complexity. Twisting glass arms extend outward, ending in overlay bobeches of green and white, each adorned with radiant crystal drops. Above these, tulip-shaped candle holders fashioned from ruby-red glass and gilded for added brilliance support faux candlelights. Scattered throughout are bell-shaped pendants in complementary tones of green, white, and gold, which add vibrant colour.
At its core, the chandelier is anchored by a vertical shaft made of bulbous, layered glass segments. Many of these sections feature white overlay glass with gilded quatrefoil detailing, exposing vivid tones of emerald and crimson underneath – an elegant motif that repeats across the entire composition. The central support finishes with additional glass overlays and finely cut pendants that bring the piece to a harmonious conclusion.
This very fine chandelier represents a pinnacle of 19th-century European decorative design and would make a breath-taking focal point in any refined interior or curated collection.