Chandelier

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative collection, this delicate ivory chandelier from the 18th century stands as a captivating example of craftsmanship. Measuring just 17 × 18½ inches (43.2 × 47 cm) including its hanging attachment, this petite fixture—crafted from the prized natural substance of ivory—likely served as a luxurious ornamental piece rather than a functional light source, evoking the opulence of elite interiors during the Enlightenment era. Its possible Indian origins highlight the vibrant tradition of ivory carving in South Asia, where ar...