What characterises Napoleon III period lighting?

Lighting from the Napoleon III period (18521870) in France features opulent revival styles combining neoclassical lines, ornate bronze castings, and decorative glass or crystal components.

What materials are traditionally used in French opaline glass chandeliers?

These chandeliers typically combine cast bronze or brass frames with hand-blown opaline glass, known for its translucent, milky appearance created by adding tin oxide or bone ash.

How can one identify authentic 19th-century bronze chandeliers?

Authentic 19th-century pieces usually exhibit hand-finished casting marks, heavy bronze construction, original patination or gilt finishes, and period-appropriate assembly threads or chain links.

How can an antique bronze chandelier be styled in a modern interior?

Large antique chandeliers work well hung low over contemporary dining tables or centered in tall entryways, providing architectural contrast against neutral walls and clean lines.

What is the proper method for cleaning antique bronze and opaline glass lighting?

Dust metal surfaces regularly with a dry soft cloth, avoiding chemical polishes that strip original patina. Wipe opaline glass gently using a slightly damp microfibre cloth.

for sale €2,340 $2,540

£2,000

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Very Large French Chandelier in Bronze & Opaline Napoleon III Period

Name: Very Large French Chandelier in Bronze & Opaline Napoleon III Period
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1164629
Price: 2000 GBP
Availability: InStock

19th century

For Sale by Pyrontique

Description

Very Large French Chandelier in Bronze & Opaline Napoleon III Period

A magnificent converted bronze oil lamp with character and charm from the nineteenth century.

The chandelier features its original oil tank in copper and bronze that is decorated with floral motifs; its original white and green opaque glass shade and its original wick mechanism that is fully intact and stamped 20" BEC MATODOR*IMPORTE*A BERTHAU, BORDEAUX.

A bronze adjustable height ball, that was used for extinguishing the flame, hangs above the shade.

The chandelier has been previously converted to take four bayonet light bulbs (three 25 watt bulbs to the outside and one 40 watt candle light bulb in the centre). To each side of the three outside bulbs is a pair of candles, six candles in total.

The light is suspended from a sturdy beautifully cast ceiling rose decorated with flowers and acanthus leaves. It is suspended from bronze tubes that are linked together and incorporate dragons heads with scrolling tails. To the base is a central turned bronze orb.

All in very good condition, this magnificent chandelier is a rare find. One candle holder and one drip tray have been previously replaced. There is minor discoloration to the green opaline shade.

The piece has been cleaned, re-wired and tested for EU use. It may need re-wiring for your location / country. As with all electrical lighting we recommend having it tested by an approved electrician.

Height: 130 cm

Diameter: 81 cm

The opaline glass shade measures 26 cm high with a diameter of 26 cm.

Shipping will be £150 for delivery to an address in England, France, Germany and Italy.

We can provide quotes to the rest of the UK, Europe and worldwide

Physical Dimensions

Height

130cm (51.18")

Width

81cm (31.89")

Depth

81cm (31.89")

Declaration

Pyrontique has dated this French Bronze Opaline Chandelier to the 1860s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1164629

Dealers Internal Reference

1187

Dealers Notes

French Antiques and Objets d'art

We specialise in French antiques and work with interior designers, trade and retail in the UK and worldwide. Every piece is examined and restored when necessary to a very high standard by a professionally trained restorer with years of experience.

We have an online store and viewing in person is unfortunately not an option. If you wish to return an item please send us written notification within 48 hours of receipt. Returns can be made up to 14 days after delivery. The item must be returned in the same condition as it left and a full refund less any delivery and return delivery costs incurred by us will be issued.

Packing and Delivery

We ship larger pieces, such as tables and washstands, with specialised couriers and smaller pieces, such as sculptures and lights, with FedEx or the post.

We take great care to ensure that our pieces are well-packaged for transport. Deliveries take on average between 1 week and 3 weeks (possibly longer, depending on your location, times of year and any other factors).

We have stock in Kent and France and can provide quotes to deliver from both stores. Should a piece need importing from France, the price would be DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) to include shipping, UK import VAT and customs clearance; there are no hidden costs. Please contact us by email or Whatsapp Link if you need a quote.

Payment

We accept payment by bank transfer, credit card, debit card or PayPal in either Sterling or Euros. If you purchase through Selling Antiques you can either request a delivery quote from us before payment or we will add this once we receive confirmation of your purchase.

General Information

As with all antiques, there may be small normal signs of wear and tear due to the age of a piece and its history. We aim to describe our pieces accurately – please ask for more description and photos if you would like more information. You can see our ranges, important information and terms and conditions on our website www.pyrontique.com.

Description

Very Large French Chandelier in Bronze & Opaline Napoleon III Period

A magnificent converted bronze oil lamp with character and charm from the nineteenth century.

The chandelier features its original oil tank in copper and bronze that is decorated with floral motifs; its original white and green opaque glass shade and its original wick mechanism that is fully intact and stamped 20" BEC MATODOR*IMPORTE*A BERTHAU, BORDEAUX.

fig 1. A large French Napoleon III period bronze chandelier featuring a central domed opaline glass shade surrounded by multiple curved scroll arms with candle sconces. — fig 1. Very Large French Chandelier in Bronze & Opaline Napoleon III Period

A bronze adjustable height ball, that was used for extinguishing the flame, hangs above the shade.

“

The chandelier has been previously converted to take four bayonet light bulbs (three 25 watt bulbs to the outside and one 40 watt candle light bulb in the centre).

Pyrontique

To each side of the three outside bulbs is a pair of candles, six candles in total.

fig 2. A large French Napoleon III period bronze chandelier featuring a central domed opaline glass shade surrounded by multiple curved scroll arms with candle sconces. — fig 2. Very Large French Chandelier in Bronze & Opaline Napoleon III Period

The light is suspended from a sturdy beautifully cast ceiling rose decorated with flowers and acanthus leaves. It is suspended from bronze tubes that are linked together and incorporate dragons heads with scrolling tails. To the base is a central turned bronze orb.

fig 3. A large French Napoleon III period bronze chandelier featuring a central domed opaline glass shade surrounded by multiple curved scroll arms with candle sconces. — fig 3. Very Large French Chandelier in Bronze & Opaline Napoleon III Period

All in very good condition, this magnificent chandelier is a rare find. One candle holder and one drip tray have been previously replaced. There is minor discoloration to the green opaline shade.

The piece has been cleaned, re-wired and tested for EU use. It may need re-wiring for your location / country. As with all electrical lighting we recommend having it tested by an approved electrician.