Directoire-period gilt-bronze and crystal bag chandelier

This Directoire-period gilt-bronze and cut-crystal bag chandelier features a chased bronze frame hung with crystal drops. The upper section is surmounted by a crown adorned with foliate motifs, from which swags of beads descend to the central band. The chased bronze frame is decorated with a frieze of foliate scrolls and laurel-wreath medallions enclosing cut crystal. Several candle arms extend from the main ring, while the lower section forms a suspended crystal bag terminating in a faceted pendant. The piece thus anticipates the decorative vocabulary of the Empire style.