Brass and Glass Chandelier by Fontana Arte, Italy - Mid-20th Century

Description

Italian chandelier identified as Fontana Arte, dating to the mid-20th century. The elongated composition is organised around a horizontal metal structure positioned between two thick, transparent glass panels with polished edges. Ten curved brass arms extend upwards in two opposing rows, each terminating in an exposed light bulb held within a finely detailed socket. Two slender vertical rods suspend the fixture from above, emphasising its linear proportions. The transparency of the glass allows the metal construction to remain fully visible, while the repeated upward curves establish a measured rhythm along its length.

The chandelier demonstrates the close relationship between glass, metalwork and lighting characteristic of Italian modernist design during the postwar period. Rather than concealing the light sources behind conventional shades, the construction incorporates them as visible elements of the overall composition. The substantial glass panels provide a restrained architectural counterpoint to the curved brass arms, balancing transparency with structural definition.

GW4824