Stunning 5-Light "Soleure" or "Brown Tip" Chandelier, c1932

Description

One of the most admired and sought after of all shaded light designs, the series popularly known as the "Brown Tip" family was well-made from quality materials, expertly finished, and features outstanding Art Deco styling. This series was originally called the Soleure line and was made Mid-West Chandelier Company of Kansas City, Mo. Sometimes sold under different names, in a c1932 distributor catalogue from Garfield-Elliott in our archive, it is called the Jewel Bronze Line and its virtues are extolled: "Stimulating in its beauty. Restful and decorative in its lighting. You will treasure this beautiful masterpiece with as warm an affection as you do any of your furnishings." Need we say more?

"Shaded lights" were the hot trend from about 1930 through 1935, before Streamline style and cup-shade fixtures moved center stage. Inspired by French examples and featuring individual glass slip or slipper shades at each light bulb that were typically unique to specific body designs, these fixtures generally offer direct illumination of the ceiling above while casting a warm and intimate light on the area below - often a living room or a dining room table. These fixtures were usually designed in named families or series, with a range of different lengths, lights, colors and applications available.