Rare Small Louis XVI Style Chandelier, 19th Century.

Rare small Louis XVI style chandelier – Gilt bronze, 19th century.
Beautiful small chandelier with six light arms in finely chiseled and gilded bronze, dating from the 19th century, in a pure Louis XVI style. This model is distinguished by its reduced proportions – only 43 cm in height – while retaining the ornamental richness of the large chandeliers of the late 18th century.
The light arms, decorated with curled foliage, volutes, florets and pearls, unfold around a central fluted shaft, adorned with gadrooned rings.  A high crown decorated with stylized leaves connects the whole with six delicate chains, emphasizing the verticality and elegance of the composition. The sockets rest on a gadrooned cup and hold a wax candle. Note that the chandelier has not been electrified.
The old gilding is well preserved, with some wear.
The rather rare format of this chandelier gives rise to several hypotheses. It could have been designed for a small, refined room – boudoir, oratory, alcove or vestibule – but also as a presentation model to illustrate the expertise of a bronzier. One could also consider a showcase or boutique chandelier, or a piece intended for a sophisticated doll theater. Finally, it could also be a companion work, carried out as part of a masterpiece, where the mastery of chiseling, decorative balance and assembly had to be demonstrated on a reduced scale.
This would explain the quality of execution and the ornamental richness in such a contained format.
Very good general condition, an element located at the top of the tube is missing (see photo).
This small chandelier is thus a rare and precious piece, witness to refined know-how, ideal for adorning a characterful interior, a showcase or a collection of rare objects.