Pair of Art Nouveau Hand-Blown Opaline Glass Pendant Lights, circa 1900–1915
£495.00
Description
A rare and elegant pair of Art Nouveau pendant lights, each fitted with an original hand-blown opaline glass shade, subtly and intentionally different in form, as is entirely consistent with artisanal production of the period. The softly flared bell-shaped shades display gentle variations in contour and thickness, underscoring their hand-made origin and enhancing their sculptural quality.
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Pair of Art Nouveau Hand-Blown Opaline Glass Pendant Lights, circa 1900–1915
A rare and elegant pair of Art Nouveau pendant lights, each fitted with an original hand-blown opaline glass shade, subtly and intentionally different in form, as is entirely consistent with artisanal production of the period. The softly flared bell-shaped shades display gentle variations in contour and thickness, underscoring their hand-made origin and enhancing their sculptural quality.
The opaline glass has a refined milky translucence, designed to soften and diffuse early electric light, creating a warm and atmospheric glow. Each shade is suspended from a finely proportioned brass gallery and chain, the metalwork retaining a rich, mellow patina that complements the glass beautifully.
The survival of these pendants as a matching pair—while retaining their individual hand-crafted character—is increasingly uncommon, particularly given the fragility of the glass and the frequency with which such lights were later altered or separated.
United kingdom where high-quality decorative glass and lighting were produced during the Art Nouveau period.
During the Art Nouveau period, lighting designers embraced traditional glassblowing techniques while responding to the possibilities of electric illumination. Subtle variation between components was not only accepted but expected, reflecting the movement’s emphasis on craftsmanship and individuality over industrial uniformity. Opaline glass was particularly favoured for domestic interiors, where it offered a softer, more intimate quality of light.
Dealer’s Comments
The slight variation between these two shades is a mark of quality rather than flaw, confirming their hand-blown origin and artisanal manufacture. Together they form a harmonious pair with individual character, precisely the type of detail sought by discerning collectors and interior designers. Authentic Art Nouveau pendants of this calibre, particularly surviving as a pair, are now increasingly rare.
Condition Report
Very good antique condition. Both shades are free from chips or cracks. All fittings replaced. Rewired for modern use.
Measurement
Height:Â Â Â Â Â Â 14 cm /Â Â Â Â 5.5 inch
Max drop:Â Â Â Â 56 cm /Â Â Â 22 inch
Min drop:Â Â Â Â 27cm /Â Â Â Â 10.6 inch
Width:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 13 cm /Â Â Â Â 5.1 inch
Depth:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 13 cm /Â Â Â Â 5.1 inch
Weight:Â Â Â Â Â Â 0.4 k.g. /Â Â 0.9 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
