An American Gas Chandelier

New York
Circa 1860
Attributed to Starr, Fellows and Company or Fellows, Hoffman and Company

Recently removed from a townhouse in New York City, this gas chandelier is an excellent example of the variety of forms used to light American homes in the mid-nineteenth century. The patinated and gilt canopy is detailed with cabouchon-like ornaments. Gilt rod-suspended cables with patinated masks support the body of the fixture. In the center stands a figure of Benjamin Franklin holding his hat in one hand and a scroll in the other. The arms of the chandelier are composed of fanciful patinated chimeras with gilt highlights. Ornate panels center the masks of putti, which decorate the gilt bowl of the chandelier. The burners are topped with frosted and cut shades.

Brass, spelter, and glass
Height: 53” Width: 33”
D1096
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