Ceiling light, gilded bronze and cut and frosted crystal, Art Nouveau, 1930s – France

Spectacular French Art Nouveau chandelier or chandelier, with a structure in gilded bronze or powdered gold and a dome in cut crystal with a frosted finish. The chandelier begins with a small ceiling panel in gilded bronze decorated with palmette motifs. From this panel extend five gilded bronze crests, each opening towards one of the five lights supported by a large circular body in bronze adorned with medallions. Five arms extend from this base, surrounding the main body. This luxurious circular body is decorated with stylised cherubs holding cups of abundance amidst scrolls and shells, and is in turn surrounded by an elegant frieze of vine leaves. The central piece is the magnificent lampshade or dome in diamond-cut crystal, which houses three additional lights inside. The frosted technique is the process by which the crystal undergoes a chemical or abrasive treatment to achieve a matte surface, reducing its transparency and generating a soft, satin-like texture. Art Nouveau was an artistic movement that emerged at the end of the 19th century, seeking to integrate art into everyday life, breaking away from historical styles. It is characterised by sinuous lines, forms inspired by nature such as flowers, stems, or insects, and an organic design that conveys fluidity and elegance. Its development was international, with variants such as the German Jugendstil or Catalan Modernism, although its origin is in Belgium. In the decorative arts, Art Nouveau reached one of its richest expressions: furniture, lamps, textiles, ceramics, and stained glass were designed as artistic pieces. Artisans and artists like Gallé, Tiffany, or Gaudí shaped functional objects that were also works of art, using innovative materials and artisanal techniques. This approach aimed to beautify the domestic environment without sacrificing functionality. The result is a highly decorative chandelier of extraordinary quality, with a unique and sophisticated design.