The famous monarch and the iconic chandelier—that's Maria Theresa
Added 1.7.2024 11:02.19
Inspiration for lighting design can be found all around us. Like other areas of human activity, crystal chandeliers follow fashion trends. One such trend was lavish lighting fixtures created for the most luxurious palace interiors, which gave birth to the iconic Maria Theresa chandelier. Its design, however, is so exceptional that it has transcended mere trend status. On the contrary, in its many variations, it continues to adorn stylish spaces today.
300 Years of Glittering Splendour
Welcome to our latest story on the evolution of lighting and glassmaking, commemorating its 300th anniversary. Experiments with materials, processes, and applications have produced enchanting results, creating various chandeliers inspired by contemporary artistic styles and significant events.
The coronation of the eminent monarch Maria Theresa was illuminated by the original all-glass chandeliers, still lit by candle flames at the time. The arms were made of two pieces of glass. At that time, glassmakers had not yet succeeded in creating a hollow arm that would later allow cables to be threaded through to the light source. The joints of these glass parts are decorated with rosettes and cut trimmings.
Timeless Beauty
Just as some of Maria Theresa's deeds have been celebrated for generations, the design of chandeliers in her honor has become timeless. Even today, diverse versions are installed in projects worldwide. ArtCrystal Tomeš had the honor of preparing three replicas of these period luminaires for the 17th-century Zagan Palace in Poland.
In the Czech Republic, too, there are many places where Maria Theresa shines. A three-meter replica of a Theresian chandelier can be found, for example, in the Council Hall in Brno, where it illuminates Baroque frescoes that were hidden under plaster for 137 years. You can take a virtual tour of the hall with us here.
Maria Theresa Shines in Máj Národní
Come and see two exceptional Maria Theresa chandeliers in the newly opened Máj department store on Národní třída in Prague. These chandeliers will enchant you from the moment you enter with their dynamic lighting and impressive two-meter diameter.
The Máj Národní department store has undergone extensive reconstruction, and now its interiors are decorated with 300 Czech-made crystal chandeliers from ArtCrystal Tomeš.
The entire collection includes a wide range of types, from central ceiling chandeliers and wall lights to clusters of smaller pendants. All the lighting fixtures have been custom-made by Czech glassmakers, becoming a stunning decoration for the department store's interior. Read more in this article.
Historical Beauty in a New Coat
The Maria Theresa chandelier collection is also part of our current portfolio. It is undoubted proof that true elegance and sophistication know no boundaries, regardless of the space's size or the ceiling's height. Take a look, for example, at the unconventional variant directly attached to the ceiling, which perfectly complements modern and compact interiors with low ceilings. This adaptation of a classic design is a great example of how any interior can be brightened up with a chandelier that bears a trace of its historical heritage but is also adapted to contemporary needs and aesthetic ideas.
Wondering how to incorporate a traditional chandelier into a modern interior? Get inspiration and take a look at the projects we have recently completed. Be enchanted by the sparkle of crystal in our showroom, where our lighting specialists will be happy to advise you on your choice.
