A pair of early 19th century Empire chandeliers with six lights, from an ancient Genoese palace

Empire chandelier pair from the early 19th century with six lights, originating from an ancient Genoese palace, in excellent condition.

Designed for candle lighting, they are made with an elegant iron structure covered with round brass foil crowns of various diameters, embossed with botanical motifs and gilded with mercury. 

The upper crown is decorated with embossed and gilded leaves, from which hang garlands of oval crystals of different sizes, all connected in a larger circle, with six cast arms ending with E14 bulbs. They have been beautifully restored and electrified for a maximum total power of 750 watts. 

The lower crown features a hanging motif of botanical designs and crystal pendants, vertical prisms that have been integrated due to their absence. 

These two Ligurian antique chandeliers are very similar but not identical, as they differ in two small details: the shape of the upper leaves and the floral motifs of the pendants.

Stylish antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for interior decoration. Today, there is an increasing number of enthusiasts of high-quality vintage items that possess a distinct character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the design of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its own distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, especially the Biedermeier style. Its early 20th-century variants include neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and the Victorian English style. By the end of the century, these styles evolved into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture and accessories date from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This style was influenced by Napoleon’s reign, emphasizing Roman and Greek decorative motifs.

Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. The Baroque style, derived from the Portuguese word 'barocco'—meaning irregularly developed pearl—features highly ornate furniture designed to radiate splendor and luxury. Materials were carefully selected to emphasize the grandeur of these pieces.

Today, we can see how much the Baroque style influenced modern classical furniture, which often resembles the historical period. The Renaissance style, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, also left a significant mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, using brown stains, cornices, strong bases, and relief decorations. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, especially in the construction of cabinets and chest-type furniture. Mythology and ancient themes were popular, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws and eagle heads are common features in Renaissance style furniture. Many global brands now recreate such pieces, inspired by Italian and French artisans, as a tribute to the beauty of Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture styles varied by country, each with its own character. This is especially relevant when searching for an elegant antique that suits your interior.

The key to high-quality antique furniture is originality. This is crucial for buyers, as many forgeries circulate on the market. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and accurate description and images. We also offer access to art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world.