A fine and rare German giltwood, gilt-lead and cut-glass twelve-light chandelier circa 1820 after a design by Karl F. Schinkel

In good overall condition. Some candle branches slightly loose. Wear to gilded surface consistent with age and use.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Karl Friedrich Schinkel (1781-1841) was the principal architect to the Prussian court and supplied a number of chandeliers comparable to the offered example including chandeliers supplied for the Prinz August Palais (see E. Bartke, Karl Friedrich Schinkel, 1781-1841, 1982, fig. 290) and the Prinz Karl Palais (see J. Sievers, Karl Friedrich Schinkel, Lebenswerk, Die Möbel, 1950, figs. 237-238). A closely comparable chandelier is reproduced, Karl Friedrich Schinkel,  Catalogue of Castles, Gardens and Cultural Properties in Prussia, 1981, p. 314, fig. 274, fig. 1.

Another twelve-light chandelier with identical molded borders fitted with anthemia and with identical curved candle branches was sold, Sotheby's, New York, May 23, 2003.  Another with twenty-four lights from the Minister's Banquet Room at Christensborg in Copenhagen was sold, Christie's, New York, March 27, 1997, lot 191.  A third, eight-light chandelier, formerly in the collection of the late Garrick Stephenson was sold, Christie's, New York, October 29, 1993, lot 196.  Each of these examples had identical molded bands with anthemia and curved candle branches and all are attributed to this celebrated architect and designer.