Antique French Empire Style Basket Chandelier with Faceted Glass Prisms c. 1880

An elegant French basket chandelier crafted in the Empire taste and richly adorned with cascading strands of faceted glass prisms. Dating to the late nineteenth century, this impressive six-light fixture features a graceful tapered basket form crowned by an ornate floral crest and suspended beneath a decorative gilt metal framework.

The chandelier is embellished throughout with hand-strung faceted oval glass prisms that create remarkable depth, movement, and sparkle. Delicately pierced floral galleries, foliate ornamentation, and a dramatic crown-form crest contribute to the fixture's refined architectural presence, while the basket silhouette evokes the grand decorative lighting found in French interiors during the late nineteenth century.

Inspired by the opulence of the Empire period, the chandelier combines elegant proportions with exceptional decorative impact. The warm aged patina of the metalwork complements the shimmering glass elements, creating a sophisticated balance between grandeur and refinement.

Whether installed in a dining room, entry hall, bedroom, dressing room, or formal sitting room, this chandelier serves as both a source of illumination and a remarkable decorative centerpiece.

A beautiful example of French lighting design that captures the romance and craftsmanship of the Belle Époque era.

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Details

• French Empire Style
• France, Circa 1880
• Six-light configuration
• Gilt metal framework
• Faceted oval glass prisms
• Crown-form floral crest
• Basket-form construction
• Hand-strung glass decoration
• Beautiful aged patina throughout
• Electrified for modern use

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Features

Elegant Basket Form

• Classic French Empire silhouette
• Tapered basket design
• Decorative lower glass gallery

Ornate Metalwork

• Floral crown cresting
• Pierced foliate decoration
• Richly detailed gilt framework

Exceptional Decorative Presence

• Faceted oval glass prisms
• Cascading hand-strung strands
• Beautiful light reflection and sparkle
• Impressive scale and visual impact

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Dimensions

• 21.5"W
• 21"D
• 34"H
• Approx. 77 lbs (35 kg)

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Why We Love It

The dramatic crown, elegant basket silhouette, and hundreds of faceted glass prisms give this chandelier a presence far beyond its footprint. Large enough to command attention yet versatile enough for a variety of interiors, it embodies everything we love about antique French lighting. The combination of age, craftsmanship, and timeless design makes it equally appealing to collectors, designers, and homeowners seeking an authentic statement piece.

Its scale is particularly desirable—substantial enough for a dining room or entry hall while remaining perfectly suited to bedrooms, dressing rooms, and intimate entertaining spaces where oversized chandeliers would overwhelm the room.

A stunning antique chandelier that brings warmth, elegance, and unmistakable French character to any interior.

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Condition

Good antique condition consistent with age and use. Age-appropriate wear, oxidation, and patina to the metalwork. Glass strands show expected variations and wear from over a century of service. Minor losses or replacements may be present. Rewiring recommended or may have been previously electrified depending on installation requirements. Please review photographs for complete condition details.

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Available through DOP Antiques. Message us for additional details, condition notes, and shipping options.