Antique French Chandeliers

French Chandeliers

France has played an important role in the development of European chandeliers and decorative lighting for centuries. Particularly from the 18th century onwards, elegant and prestigious chandeliers were created in a variety of styles, ranging from Louis XV and Louis XVI to Empire and Napoleon III, followed by Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

French chandeliers are often characterized by finely crafted brass or bronze frames combined with glass or crystal decorations. Curved arms, floral ornaments, gilded finishes, finely cut pendants and crystal rosettes give many of these chandeliers their distinctive and elegant appearance. During the Empire period, basket and Montgolfière chandeliers decorated with elaborate strands of crystal became particularly popular.

Antique French chandeliers combine traditional craftsmanship with a remarkable variety of styles and remain among the great classics of historic European lighting.