Lasvit has restored various bohemian crystal chandeliers at Palazzo Serbelloni, set to be unveiled in Milan during Salone.

The crystal chandeliers found in the staterooms were crafted of bohemien crystal at the end of the 18^th century. There are no specific records regarding their origin due to the burning of the palazzo archive during WWII.

Two chandeliers are located in the grand hall, called either Sala Napoleonica or Sala Bonaparte and originally used as a dance and concert hall. Another pair are found in the smaller Sala Gian Galeazzo, having the same design in smaller scale. The four chandeliers are composed of forty various components that have more than 1,000 elements.

The renovation required a combination of three glassmaking techniques, including the production and replacement of hand-cut crystal trimmings, hand-blown and cut components, as well as melted and cut arms. The overall aim was to sustain as many original components as possible, despite such traces of age such as scratches or minor damage.

For the momentous project, the original components were dismantled and shipped to Lasvit’s headquarters in the Czech Republic, where they were likely first made in the late 1700’s, completing a historic and creative full circle.

Restorer Marta Polese commented: “I have always believed in binomial light; life and all its meanings. This project combines the idea of giving these magnificent 18^th century chandeliers their light and shine back, and giving a new lease of life to the essence of the famous Sale Napoleoniche of the historical Palazzo Serbelloni.

www.lasvit.com