Eight-light chandelier 1705 - 1715

This ornate, gilded bronze chandelier, crafted by renowned French cabinetmaker André Charles Boulle between 1705 and 1715, is a prime example of the luxurious decorative arts favored by the aristocracy in the late Baroque period. The piece showcases the intricate, flowing lines and elaborate ornamentation characteristic of Boulle’s signature style, known as "Boulle work." It was a masterful example of Boulle’s ability to seamlessly combine different materials, with this particular chandelier showcasing the use of bronze and a gilded finish. With its eight candle arms and elaborate design, this chandelier would have cast a warm, inviting glow over a grand room, symbolizing the wealth and sophistication of its owner. It is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection in New York City.