Mid-Century Brass Fitted, Textured & Frosted Glass Flush Mount by Jean Perzel
Mid-Century Brass Fitted, Textured & Frosted Glass Flush Mount by Jean Perzel
This sophisticated and materially exquisite Mid-Century Modernist Round Flush Mount Chandelier in Textured & Frosted Glass with Brass Fittings is signed Jean Perzel and originates from France during the latter half of the 20th Century. Features a cylindrical composition lined in polished brass, with a frosted shade on the undersurface of the piece diffusing the light of the bulbs as well as directing light outwards to interact through and within the stunning array of mottled glass elements lining the sides. Rectangular but softly rounded and textural, these elements create a lovely rhythm to the piece and contribute to its beauty and elegant sensibility. Styling beautifully in a wide array of spaces and settings, from Mid-Century Modernist to Contemporary and Minimal Interiors. Newly rewired to American Standards and with a signature on the edge of the brass frame denoting the maker, this piece is In Excellent Vintage Condition. Accommodates four edison base bulbs achieving up to 400 watts of light.
France, 20th Century
Dimensions:
Height: 5.5 in (13.97 cm) x Diameter: 18 in (45.72 cm)
Creator: Atelier Jean Perzel (Maker)
Power Source: Hardwired
Style: Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Brass, Glass
Place of Origin: France
Period: 20th Century
Date of Manufacture: 20th Century
Condition: Excellent. Rewired.
Reference Number: LU793438896092
JEAN PERZEL
Jean Perzel was born in Bruck, Bavaria, on May 2, 1892. Starting young as a glassworker painter in Munich, he excelled early, finishing first in his class at 16. Perzel then embarked on a European journey on foot, working in various studios across Austria, Czechoslovakia, Switzerland, Italy, and France to hone his craft. He arrived in Paris in 1910 and worked with a master glazier, which led him to significant projects in Algiers. Returning to Paris in 1914, he enlisted in the Foreign Legion during World War I, was demobilized in 1919, and became a naturalized French citizen.
From 1920 to 1939, the Art Deco movement revolutionized architecture and design, and Jean Perzel made his mark in this era. He founded the Jean Perzel company, specializing in glass and bronze light fixtures and furniture, which graced prestigious locations such as the King’s Court in Belgium, Henry Ford’s home, and the Rothschild residence. His notable projects included lighting for the League of Nations in Geneva, the Luxembourg Cathedral, the Canadian Embassy in Lahaye, and the French cruise ship Normandie.
Perzel's innovative designs earned him numerous awards and popularity among celebrities and politicians. His work illuminated the interiors of the King of Morocco, the King of Siam in Bangkok, the Maharaja of Indore, and French presidents General De Gaulle and Georges Pompidou. In 1923, at just 31, Perzel specialized in modern interior lighting, establishing his showroom and workshop in an Art Deco building in Paris’s 14th arrondissement, designed by architect Michel Roux-Spitz.
Motivated by a desire to intensify light, Perzel crafted all his pieces from glass, constantly seeking elegance and purity in his designs. Each creation highlighted the architecture of its setting, making Perzel’s fixtures timeless works of art. In 1933, his nephew François Raidt joined the company, becoming a key figure in refining and simplifying the production of Perzel lamps. At just 18, François designed decorative lamps for Henry Ford to celebrate the company’s 25 millionth automobile.
François adapted his style to the changing tastes of the 1960s and 1970s, creating new lines that retained a pure and timeless aesthetic. His son, Olivier Raidt, continued this legacy, learning the intricacies of lighting design from an early age. After mastering each step of the assembly process, Olivier brought new enthusiasm and management skills to the company, along with a vision for international development. As both a creator and businessman, Olivier and his team blend contemporary style with traditional craftsmanship, epitomizing the Jean Perzel lines.
Today, Jean Perzel's company remains a beacon of timeless sophistication. Customers continue to seek Perzel's creations to warm their interiors with the elegant light that has defined the brand since 1923. In recognition of its rich history and traditional techniques, the French Ministry of Culture awarded Jean Perzel the label of “Company of Living Heritage” in 2008. Jean Perzel’s legacy endures, illuminating spaces with unmatched elegance and style.