An unusual Russian gilt-bronze chandelier first quarter 19th century, the blue glass later

the corona cast with six  sprays of flowers and leaves, engraved BH on the back, the underside with a pinecone finial emanating from an alternating band of wheatsheaves and flowers, hung with pierced chains of rectangular form enclosing a flowerhead, the central ring supporting anthemions and twelve candlearms in the form of swans with a candle-nozzle upon their heads, the bowl shaped blue glass reservoir, painted with a band of vine leaves and grapes, with a further pinecone finial; glass bowl restored

Colour of gilding more golden and porelain less violet and more blue coloured and attractuive than in the photo. Very nice detail to casting. Gilding slightly worn on corona. Some of the bobèche are pitted and dented and show evidence of previous drilling for electricity. There are small pin sized holes beneath the central ring where the previously may well have been glass drops. Three tails of the swans appear to have been resoldered. Some minor tarnishing to gilt-bronze which would benefit from a light clean according to taste. An unusual lot in overall very good condition. SALEROOM NOTICE Please note the glass bowl has not been restored, but has been cut down to fit the chandelier.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Comparative Literature:
Igor Sychev, Russian Chandeliers 1760-1830, Moscow, 2003, p. 125,  plates 566 and 568 for a Russian chandelier with similar swan candlearms. The flowers on the corona are also similarly cast to those on this chandelier.