This monumental Murano glass chandelier is not merely a lighting fixture, but a masterwork of early 20th-century design—where Venetian craftsmanship meets the emerging rationalist aesthetic with exceptional clarity and ambition.
Historically, the piece carries distinguished provenance.
Originating from a design by Maestro Napoleone Martinuzzi for Venini—one of the most influential figures in Murano glass innovation—it was later realized by the Pauly furnace, a prestigious Venetian manufacturer founded in the 19th century.
Fabbrica Lampadari Veneziani in Murano, naming it “Fornace PAULY.”
This chandelier was born from a design by Maestro Napoleone Martinuzzi for the Venini furnaces; the project was later sold to the Pauly furnace. The “rationalist” line, typical of the early 20th century, was a major innovation because it revolutionized the traditional forms of Venetian chandeliers, featuring leaves and flowers.
Its scale is breathtaking:
• Three tiers measuring approximately 180 cm in diameter
• A total height of around 300 cm
• Fifty-two individual light points with 52 E 27 light bulbs creating a layered, radiant intensity
Suspended in space like a luminous architectural structure, the chandelier unfolds across three expansive tiers, each radiating outward in perfect symmetry. Its 52 arms extend like elegant, fluid conduits, each one drawn in elongated “pipe-like” forms that curve outward with effortless grace before resolving into delicate, circular plates.
The glasswork is extraordinary. Crafted in the rare “talco” tone, the material possesses a soft, milky translucence that diffuses illumination into a warm, enveloping glow. This subtle opacity is heightened by the refined application of a vivid cobalt-blue edge. The contrast is both restrained and striking—an unmistakable signature of refined Murano artistry.
Piece of great value and elegance.
All glass parts are in excellent original condition with no cracks or repairs.
Wired to fit US Standards.
More Details
Creator: Napoleone Martinuzzi (Designer)
Dimensions: Height: 118.12 in (300 cm)Diameter: 70.87 in (180 cm)
Power Source: Hardwired
Voltage: 110-150v,220-240v
Lampshade: Not Included
Style: Art Deco (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Blown Glass
Place of Origin: Italy
Period: 1930-1939
Date of Manufacture: 1930
Condition: ExcellentWear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location: Rome, IT