How do I clean a crystal chandelier?

Maintenance involves wiping glass and crystal components gently with a damp cloth while supporting the hanging drops by hand. Harsh chemical cleaners damage the gilt surface on the bronze frame, so mild soapy water works best for preserving the metal.

Are these fittings wired for modern electricity?

Most antique lighting pieces on this page have been adapted for contemporary electrical standards during their lifetime. Buyers should arrange for a qualified electrician to inspect the internal wiring prior to installation in a domestic ceiling.

How do I identify a Louis XV style fitting?

Louis XV style pieces display asymmetrical scrolling, C-scrolls, and naturalistic leaf motifs inspired by mid-eighteenth-century French design. Twentieth-century revivals borrow these same curvaceous forms, making period attribution depend on material wear and casting techniques.

What is the difference between bronze and brass fittings?

Bronze is a heavy alloy of copper and tin that takes gilding exceptionally well and yields a warm tone when cast. Brass contains copper and zinc, generally offering a brighter yellow metallic appearance that was frequently utilised in mid-century production.