Maria Theresa crystal chandelier with leaf drops, 6 lights, mid-20th c.

A wide, graceful crystal chandelier in Maria Theresa style with six lights. The six curved arms are clad in glass and decorated with small glass rosettes; above them extra decorative arms scroll upwards. At the centre is a cut baluster stem with a diamond pattern and a scalloped crown with drops. The candle cups have a frosted, scalloped rim. What makes this chandelier special are the large, flat leaf-shaped drops (also known as ‘French cut’ or ‘pendeloques’), alternating with teardrops and a crystal ball at the bottom of the centre. In the light they create a lively play of reflections. The construction – glass sleeves over a metal frame, with rosettes at the joints – is typical of the Maria Theresa chandeliers made in Europe in the mid-20th century. Condition: fair, with signs of use consistent with age. On one of the decorative arms two pieces of the glass cladding are missing, so the metal frame is visible there. On a few drops there is a yellowish residue of glue or sealant at the top near the hanging loop. No breaks or missing arms seen. The wiring needs to be checked before the chandelier is hung; the price reflects this.