Girandole (Candelabra) Design
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-310-3
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This elegant *Girandole (Candelabra) Design* by Jean François Forty, active from 1775 to 1790, dates to 1775–94 and exemplifies the refined ornamental prints of the late 18th century. As a print in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection—purchased by the Advisory Council—it captures a proposed design for a girandole, a luxurious wall-mounted candelabra with branching arms for multiple candles. These fixtures were prized in grand European and American interiors, blending functionality with opulent decoration to illuminate lavish spaces during evening gatherings. Printed designs like t...