About the Piece
An impressive oversized Moroccan pierced-brass chandelier, handcrafted in Marrakech, Morocco, circa 1980s. Monumental in scale yet remarkably airy in appearance, the chandelier combines traditional Moroccan metalworking with an elegant architectural silhouette particularly suited to large entrances, stair halls, dining rooms and high-ceiling interiors. The chandelier is constructed in finely worked brass with a warm, naturally aged bronze-gold patina. Its broad, approximately 31-inch-diameter body takes the form of an inverted bell or suspended basin, divided into individual curved panels and extensively worked with hand-pierced geometric openwork. The photograph particularly shows the remarkable density of the metalwork. Thousands of small pierced openings form repeating geometric patterns across the curved brass panels, allowing points of illumination to filter through the surface. When lit, the openwork creates a warm atmospheric glow while projecting subtle patterns of light and shadow into the surrounding interior. Along the upper perimeter is a dramatic architectural crest composed of repeating pointed and scalloped Moorish forms. Small sections of milky translucent glass provide another layer of contrast against the warm brass. Below, the body narrows elegantly into a highly decorative pierced and chased spherical element terminating in an elongated teardrop finial. Three slender chains rise from the perimeter to the ceiling assembly, while the central vertical support reinforces the chandelier's strong axial composition. The craftsmanship reflects the long tradition of Moroccan and Moorish pierced-metal lighting, incorporating geometric ornament associated with Islamic and Andalusian decorative arts. Its combination of generous scale, intricate openwork and restrained aged-brass coloration also gives the fixture considerable versatility in contemporary interiors. Although highly decorative, the approximately 30-pound weight is relatively light for a chandelier of this substantial size, a result of its extensively pierced brass construction. This piece would be especially effective suspended over a large round dining table, in an entrance hall, stairwell, gallery, vaulted living room or Mediterranean-style interior. Its sculptural form also works particularly well as a counterpoint to restrained contemporary architecture, plaster walls, limestone, travertine and modern furnishings. A pair is available. The listed price is for one chandelier. The pair would make a particularly dramatic installation in a long gallery, double-height hallway or on opposite sides of a large reception room. Handcrafted in Marrakech, Morocco, by skilled metal artisans. Rewired for electricity in the United States and ready for professional installation. Dimensions: Body: 33 in. H × 31 in. diameter Overall height to top of three chains: 47 in. Approximate weight: 30 lbs. Origin: Morocco Place of Manufacture: Marrakech Period: Late 20th Century Date: circa 1980s Materials: Brass, glass Techniques: Handcrafted, hand-pierced, hand-chased, filigree/openwork metalwork Finish: Naturally aged bronze-gold brass patina Condition: Good vintage condition with attractive age-related patina and wear consistent with age and use. Electrical: Rewired for U.S. electricity. Moroccan brass chandelier, oversized Moroccan chandelier, Moorish chandelier, pierced brass chandelier, Moroccan pendant light, Marrakech chandelier, Moroccan lighting, Moorish lighting, Islamic geometric chandelier, openwork brass chandelier, filigree chandelier, Andalusian lighting, large brass chandelier, vintage Moroccan chandelier, architectural lighting, pierced metal pendant, Moroccan lantern chandelier.
- Dimensions: Height 47 in, Diameter 31 in
- Origin: Morocco
- Period: 20th Century
- Style: Moorish
- Materials: Brass, Glass
- Creator: Alberto Pinto
