Late 19th Century 2 Light Japanned Fixture

Description

A beautiful example of late Victorian Japanned brass. The term japanned was used to describe western imitation of a traditional … more A beautiful example of late Victorian Japanned brass. The term japanned was used to describe western imitation of a traditional japanese method of lacquerware. All things Japanese were in vogue at the time as trade with Japan had just begun after a few hundred years of relative isolation. The darkened finish was achieved with layers of a shellac like resin and heat. This piece was made when electricity was still quite new and its fittings are the same as many gas and electric fixtures of the same era. The original canopy slides up to cover the electrical box, below this is a straight tube, leading to a larger reeded tube. Two delicately curved arms extend from the central cluster topped with cast ornamental pieces of the same finish. The socket covers and shade holders are also original and with a matching finish. Bell shaped glass shades, original to the fixture, have an iridescent sheen and cut starburst design. This fixture has been completely restored, the original finish cleaned and preserved, rewired, with the original Arrow sockets reconditioned. In excellent condition, a few small chips on the glass, and a dent or two in the metal body of the chandelier. Complete and ready for installation. 120V US Hardwired. Takes standard Edison base bulbs, 60W max per socket. less