Kaarsenkroon c. 1863 - 1881

This chandelier was made of silver by C. van der Aa. The material gives the chandelier its lustrous appearance and also testifies to the skill and resources of the silversmith who created it. Silverwork demands an understanding of metal properties, like malleability, to be hammered and formed into complex shapes. The process likely involved techniques such as casting, chasing, and soldering to achieve the chandelier's intricate details, from its ornate arms, to its suspension chain, and decorative spheres. Silver was often associated with wealth and status, so the creation of such an item involved a high level of craftsmanship, reflecting specific social and economic conditions. Understanding these historical connections can challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, emphasizing the cultural significance embedded in everyday objects.