About the Piece
An impressive large-scale Moroccan Moorish pierced brass Pasha chandelier, handcrafted in Marrakech and inspired by the sumptuous Orientalist interiors associated with Alberto Pinto and other great 20th-century decorators. Two matching chandeliers are available, offering a rare opportunity for a symmetrical installation in a large dining room, gallery or double-height interior.” Measuring 33 inches in diameter, this dramatic chandelier has a broad, architectural silhouette reminiscent of an inverted crown or ceremonial Moroccan basin. Its generous proportions, elaborate metalwork and warm golden surface give it considerable presence whether illuminated or viewed simply as a sculptural decorative object. The chandelier is constructed from polished brass that has been meticulously hand-hammered, chased, pierced and worked in repoussé by Moroccan artisans. Thousands of small perforations form intricate arabesque and foliate patterns across the radiating panels, transforming the metal surface into delicate lace-like openwork. When illuminated, light filters through these pierced patterns, creating the atmospheric play of light and shadow for which traditional Moroccan lighting is celebrated. The upper perimeter is particularly elaborate, finished with a series of tall pierced palmette and arabesque cresting elements. These ornamental flourishes give the chandelier its distinctive Pasha-like grandeur and reinforce its connection to historic Moorish and Islamic architectural ornament. Set throughout the brass body are decorative milky-white hand-blown glass cabochons and elongated glass inserts. Their softly translucent surfaces contrast beautifully with the polished golden brass and become luminous accents when the chandelier is switched on. The lower portion terminates in a deeply modeled, pierced brass finial, completing the chandelier's symmetrical sculptural profile. Handcrafted in Marrakech, Morocco, circa 1980s, the chandelier represents the highly skilled metalworking traditions for which Moroccan decorative lighting is renowned. Each pierced opening and chased detail was individually worked, giving the fixture the subtle variations characteristic of artisan-made objects. The chandelier measures 32 inches high including the existing three-chain suspension × 33 inches in diameter. The decorative brass shade/body itself measures approximately 20 inches high. Additional chain can be supplied or added as required to accommodate different ceiling heights. The fixture has been rewired for use in the United States and is ready for professional installation. Its substantial 33-inch diameter makes it particularly suitable above a round dining table, in an entry hall, library, salon, bedroom or beneath a high ceiling. It would be equally compelling in a Mediterranean, Moorish, Spanish Colonial, Moroccan, Orientalist or sophisticated contemporary interior. Two chandeliers are currently available. The listed price is for one chandelier. Used as a pair, they would be especially effective in a long gallery, large dining room, double-height entrance or symmetrical architectural installation. A highly decorative example of Moroccan Islamic metalwork, combining pierced brass, repoussé decoration, hand-blown glass and the theatrical scale associated with luxurious Orientalist interiors. Dimensions: 32 in H × 33 in diameter Body / Shade Height: approximately 20 in Quantity Available: 2 Sold As: Individually — price is for one Style: Moorish / Islamic / Moroccan In the Style of: Alberto Pinto — not attributed to Alberto Pinto Materials: Brass, hand-blown glass Techniques: Hand-crafted, hand-hammered, hand-chased, pierced, repoussé, polished Place of Origin: Morocco City: Marrakech Period: Late 20th Century Date: circa 1980s Power Source: Hardwired Voltage: 110–150V Electrical: Rewired for U.S. use Condition: Good vintage condition; wear and patina consistent with age and handcrafted production. Moroccan brass chandelier, Moorish chandelier, Moroccan Pasha chandelier, Alberto Pinto style lighting, pierced brass chandelier, Moroccan pendant light, Islamic brass lighting, Marrakech chandelier, Orientalist chandelier, repoussé brass light, Moroccan ceiling light, hand hammered brass chandelier, pierced metal lantern, Moorish lighting, Islamic metalwork, Moroccan palace lighting, large brass chandelier, Mediterranean lighting, Spanish Colonial lighting, luxury Moroccan chandelier.
