Chandelier 1705 - 1720

This gilded wooden chandelier was made in England around the turn of the 18th century by John Gumley. Consider the context of its creation. This was a time when display and the decorative arts were central to social identity, when new forms of commerce and consumption transformed English society. The chandelier’s design speaks to this culture of display. Its elaborate carvings and gilded surfaces were intended to impress upon viewers the wealth and status of its owner. Note that a chandelier like this would have been found in the homes of the wealthy, or perhaps in a grand public space. Its presence would have been a clear signifier of power and prestige. Art historians consult period inventories, trade records, and design manuals to better understand the role of objects like this in shaping social life. We see how art objects both reflected and reinforced existing social hierarchies. This chandelier stands as a reminder of the power of design to communicate social meaning.