Unique Swan and Lyre French 19th Century Tole Chandelier, Black and Gold

This beautiful 19th Century French chandelier features hand painted tole and an array of unique elements. Most notably the glass bowls below each light were originally used to hold wale oil as fuel for the wick which extended up the stem. The centerpiece features a lyre, an ode to Apollo, the god of prophecy and music. Its depiction symbolizes wisdom and moderation. Two swan heads extend from the instrument, in and of themselves an ode to Venus the goddess of love and seduction. During their creation, swans were thought to represent both the masculine and feminine energies, a balance surely felt here. The four lights have of course been converted to modern electricity, but the history of the piece is undoubtedly still felt.