Four-Light Gilt Metal and Glass Hall Lantern with Etched Starburst
Decorative Art / Hanging Lantern • Mass-produced decorative lighting; likely manufactured by a firm such as Visual Comfort, Currey & Company, or a similar high-end home furnishings brand inspired by Georgian designs.
Style & Movement
Neo-Georgian / Hollywood Regency Revival
Medium & Technique
Gilt-finished metal (likely brass or steel), beveled and etched glass panels, electrical components. Construction involves casting, bending, and glass etching.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1980-1995)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 22-26 inches in height and 10-12 inches in width; vertical rectangular format.
Subject Description
A square-form hanging lantern featuring a four-light cluster designed as faux cream-colored candles. The glass panes feature central etched 'starburst' or 'sunburst' motifs. The frame includes curved scrolled support arms leading to a top hanging ring.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The piece shows signs of use and age, including dust accumulation and minor oxidation on the metal surfaces.
Estimated Market Value
$250 - $450 USD
Auction Estimate
$150 - $300 USD
Provenance History
Likely residential origin from a private estate; no specific labels or inscriptions are visible in the photograph to suggest a specific gallery or auction house history.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the late 20th-century trend of utilizing 18th-century lantern silhouettes in interior design to create a sense of 'heritage' or 'classicism' in modern residential settings.
Notable Features
The distinctive etched starburst motif on the glass panels elevates it from standard clear-glass lanterns, adding a decorative layer of diffuse light when illuminated.
Condition Issues
Visible surface grime and dust on the glass and frame. Potential minor tarnishing/pitting of the gilt finish on the upper scrollwork. Electrical wiring should be inspected for safety given its age.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning with a mild non-abrasive metal cleaner and glass cleaner. Rewiring by a certified electrician is recommended before installation.