Design for a Glass Chandelier 1875 - 1885

This is a design for a glass chandelier by Richardson Ellson & Co. The design provides a glimpse into the aesthetic aspirations of its time, reflecting an era where industrial advancements met artistic expression. This piece evokes the cultural emphasis on opulence and display, intrinsic to the elite class, with elaborate designs intended to showcase wealth. The chandelier represents more than a functional object; it symbolizes social status, and the performative aspect of wealth in domestic spaces. The design is both an assertion and a reflection of societal hierarchies. How might this elaborate design serve as a point of reflection on our own contemporary values, where design often balances utility with minimalist aesthetics?