Midcentury Two-Tier Faceted Glass Chandelier by Kinkeldey with Chrome Fittings
Midcentury Two-Tier Faceted Glass Chandelier by Kinkeldey with Chrome Fittings
This elegant Mid-Century Modern chandelier was realized by the esteemed maker Kinkeldey in Austria circa 1960. It features two circular tiers of faceted crystal (resembling oversized cut diamonds) connected to a polished chrome frame. The fixture hangs from the ceiling via a cylindrical rod (in the same material) that connects to a slightly tapered cylindrical canopy, also in polished chrome. The chandelier is equipped with mercury bulbs that offer a beautiful tonal counterpoint to the chrome found throughout and nicely disperses the light in any room. With its clean modernist lines and impeccable construction by one of the era's great lighting ateliers, this fixture is as versatile as it is aesthetically compelling, blending perfectly with any style of interior from classic Mid-Century Modern to contemporary. It has been newly rewired to American standards and is in excellent vintage condition. The height can be adjusted to suit.
Austria, circa 1950
Dimensions: 21" height x 12.5" diameter.
H 21 in. (53.34 cm) x Dm 12.5 in. (31.75 cm)
Creator: Kinkeldey (Maker)
Style: Mid-Century Modern (of the period)
Place of Origin: Austria
Date of Manufacture: circa 1950
Period: 1950-1959
Materials and techniques: Cut Glass, Chrome
Condition: Excellent
Reference Number: LU793417732661
KINKELDEY
In the world of design, a few names stand out as pioneers who have left a lasting impact on the industry. One such name is Günter Ferdinand Kinkeldey, a German designer whose lamps from the 1970s continue to captivate and inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Born in 1927, Kinkeldey emerged as a visionary designer in the postwar period. With a background in metalworking and a keen aesthetic sense, he embarked on a journey to revolutionize lighting design. His commitment to craftsmanship and innovative use of materials distinguished him in an era characterized by experimentation and bold design choices.
Kinkeldey's design philosophy is best described as a harmonious blend of modernist principles and opulent aesthetics. His lamps from the 1970s often featured clean lines, geometric shapes, and meticulous attention to detail. What truly set Kinkeldey apart was his ability to infuse these minimalist designs with a sense of sophistication, transforming them into works of art that extended beyond mere functionality.
The hallmark of Kinkeldey’s lamps was their exquisite craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials. He frequently worked with brass, chrome, and glass, integrating innovative techniques such as intricate metalwork and precision-cut glass elements. The resulting collection of lamps exuded luxury and timeless elegance.
Kinkeldey was particularly renowned for his use of crystal elements, creating designer chandeliers that served as both sources of light and dazzling works of art. His use of crystal pendants and prisms refracted light to create captivating displays of reflections and shadows, enhancing the ambiance of any space.
Although the 1970s marked the peak of Kinkeldey’s career, his influence is still evident in contemporary design. The timeless appeal of his lamps has led to a resurgence of interest, with collectors eagerly seeking out these vintage treasures. Moreover, modern designers draw inspiration from Kinkeldey’s seamless fusion of form and function, incorporating similar principles into their own creations.
Günter Ferdinand Kinkeldey’s 1970s design lamps continue to be celebrated for their creativity and sophistication. Their enduring appeal lies in the perfect blend of modernist design principles and opulent aesthetics, creating pieces that transcend time and continue to illuminate spaces with timeless elegance. As we honor Kinkeldey’s legacy, we are reminded that great design is not bound by time but has the power to transcend generations and leave a lasting mark on the history of design.
