Barovier & Toso Large Italian Chandelier in Crystal Glass

Barovier&Toso, chandelier, crystal glass, metal, Italy, 1930s/40s

This breathtaking chandelier is crafted by the acclaimed Venetian glass studio Barovier&Toso, and dates back to the 1930s or 1940s. Founded in 1295 on the island of Murano (Venice, Italy), where it remains based today, the studio is dedicated to preserving and innovating the art of blown glass. Barovier&Toso’s creations are unique works, crafted from Venetian mouth-blown crystal and meticulously shaped by master artisans in Murano. These artisans uphold a centuries-old tradition, passed down through generations. In 1455, Angelo Barovier was granted an exclusive decree by the Republic of Venice to produce “Cristallo Veneziano” (Venetian Crystal), cementing the studio’s legacy in glassmaking history.

The present chandelier exudes unmistakable elegance with meticulous attention to craftsmanship and a refined appearance. The design features a central rod descending from the ceiling mount, which is detailed with the characteristic swirl from crystal glass gracefully encircling the stem down its length. The main body consists of a horizontal beam in metal interwoven with a spiral rod that supports four glass cups. The canopy, the sphere attached to the stem, and the shades are crafted using the "rostrato" technique, a method pioneered by Ercole Barovier in the 1930s. With their intricate design, the shades take center stage, becoming the defining feature of this luminous piece. As the light passes through the textured glass, it refracts and disperses, casting a warm, gentle glow. The overall design blends Art Deco influences with modernist touches, exemplifying the craftsmanship and artistic flair of Venetian glasswork from the first half of the 20th century.

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