What are victorian cut crystal drop lustres?

Victorian cut crystal drop lustres are ornamental candle holders featuring hanging glass pendants designed to refract light. They were produced primarily in pairs to adorn nineteenth century mantelpieces and tables.

How were lustres used in houses?

Lustres served as decorative lighting on mantelpieces and dining tables during the nineteenth century. The suspended crystal drops caught and multiplied the flickering light from candles before electricity became common.

How do I clean drop lustres?

Cleaning requires removing the glass drops individually and washing them in warm soapy water. The main body should be wiped gently with a soft cloth to protect any gilt decoration or surface colouring.

Are all lustres made of clear crystal?

Many lustres feature coloured glass bodies alongside clear crystal drops. Materials recorded include ruby glass, cranberry glass, green glass, and milk glass enhanced with gold leaf and gilt.

Did lustres always come in pairs?

The majority of surviving lustres appear in matched pairs designed for symmetrical placement on mantelpieces. Single examples and larger arrangements such as chandeliers also occur in the material record.