Special Commission Waterford Crystal Powerscourt Chandelier

A magnificent early Waterford Crystal Powerscourt chandelier.
Featuring twelve branches, four reaching arms on the upper whirl and eight swan-neck arms on the lower whirl. The crystal-encased arms are terminated by a double cut crystal flower blossom bobeche, supporting seven crystal spear prisms. A huge cut crystal base bowl and inverted bobeche adorns the base, concluded by a faceted crystal ball pendant on a button chain and surrounded by further spear prisms.

Many of the component pieces are acid etched with the Waterford mark.

The design for the chandelier was originally inspired by the landscape and architecture of the Powerscourt Estate in Wicklow.

PROVENANCE:
This chandelier is a very early example. It is mouth blown and hand cut 33% lead crystal. It was manufactured as a ‘special commission’ in 1953 and presented as a gift by the Waterford company to an Irish advertising agency, who at that time was responsible for the marketing and advertising of Waterford Crystal. The advertising agency was purchased by a UK-based company in 1958, and the chandelier was moved to England. The chandelier hung in that company’s board room from 1958 to 2022.

The Waterford Crystal archive department has indicated that the cutting pattern on this chandelier (especially the bobeche detailing) is unique. Unlike many of the later Waterford chandeliers, this chandelier was made in Waterford, Ireland.

CONDITION:
The chandelier has undergone 16 months’ restoration, in conjunction with The House of Waterford, Ireland. It has been cleaned and re-wired.

There is a partial crack to one of the inverted bobeche on the upper whirl, albeit not visible when the chandelier is hanging.
One of the candle cups on the upper whirl had a large chip and crack to the side. As this chandelier is a special commission piece, the cut pattern is unique. Waterford no longer have the cutting guide in their archive and are, unfortunately, unable to re-produce these two parts.
As a result, the four candle cups on the upper whirl have been replaced with new cups manufactured by Waterford. The 4 originals (albeit that 1 has a crack & chip) have been retained. These will be supplied with the chandelier. The new custodian will therefore be able to choose whether they prefer originality or perfection.

There are a very few minor flea bites elsewhere as you would expect on a chandelier of this age.

This magnificent chandelier really does need to be seen to be fully appreciated. You are warmly invited to visit to the Guard Room where you will find this chandelier on display in the central atrium.

HELP & GUIDANCE:
We take great pride in meticulously restoring our vintage chandeliers so that they may once again form a centrepiece in your home. Our aim is to ensure that your dream of owning a beautiful chandelier can be realised seamlessly. We’re here to assist you with every aspect of purchasing and installing your chandelier.

Each Chandelier is carefully and masterfully taken apart, thoroughly cleaned and restored to its former glory. We can deliver to your location in bespoke wooden suspension cages, ensuring that your chandelier arrives in pristine condition.

In addition, we offer a sourcing service, where chandeliers can be found to meet your specific style, size and budget.

If you need any guidance, please contact Diana Helliwell, our Senior Buildings Manager, based in The Guardroom.
e.mail: Diana.Helliwell@Hemswell-antiques.com
Phone: 07940 142243