Pair of Italian 1950s Gilt Tole Chandelier Sconces

Pair of Italian 1950s Gilt Tole Chandelier Sconces

This pair of Italian 1950s gilt tole chandelier sconces brings together sculptural foliage, coloured glass fruit, and warm original gilding. Each fixture is centred on a gilt-metal shaft shaped as a tulip bud, with three scrolling arms embellished with chased and repoussé acanthus leaves.

Green, amber, and translucent glass grape clusters punctuate the arms, accompanied by small crystal florets that catch and scatter the light. Old faux candles complete the candle-style illumination, while gilt chains and foliate ceiling roses provide the finishing architectural detail.

Italian Gilt Tole and Glass Decoration

The combination of painted or gilded sheet metal shaped into foliage with glass fruits is characteristic of the imaginative Italian decorative lighting of the 1950s. The botanical forms give each chandelier a distinctly sculptural quality, while the coloured glass introduces subtle flashes of amber, green, and crystal.

The warm original gilding has developed an attractive patina, preserving the character of the period craftsmanship. Together, the metal foliage and glass ornament create a rich yet relatively compact composition.

Florentine-Inspired 1950s Design

These chandeliers belong to the broader Italian tradition of highly decorative gilt-metal lighting associated with postwar Florence. During the 1950s, Italian workshops produced elaborate fixtures that combined historical motifs with the freer decorative sensibility of the period.

The pair works particularly well where symmetry is desired. Positioned on either side of an alcove, along a corridor, or in an entrance hall, they provide both illumination and a strong decorative accent.

Details

• Type: Pair of chandelier-style wall lights
• Style: Italian Mid-Century / decorative 1950s
• Period: 1950s
• Place of origin: Italy
• Materials: Gilt tole, coloured glass, and crystal
• Design: Tulip-bud central shaft with three scrolling arms
• Decoration: Chased and repoussé acanthus leaves
• Glass: Green, amber, and translucent grape clusters with crystal florets
• Lighting: Old faux candles
• Mounting: Gilt chain with foliate ceiling rose
• Finish: Original gilding with warm aged patina
• Condition: Good overall vintage condition
• Character: Botanical, sculptural, colourful, and decorative
• Set: Matching pair

Dimensions

• Height: 36 cm / 14.2 in
• Width: 33 cm / 13.0 in
• Depth: 33 cm / 13.0 in