A large Maria Theresa chandelier of traditional form was cleaned at a Pimlico period property. The fitting had been in place for many years and carried a settled layer of atmospheric dust across the curved glass arms and hand-cut drops.
The Piece
A Maria Theresa chandelier of nineteenth-century type, with curved glass-sheathed arms and an extensive dressing of hand-cut crystal rosettes, almond drops and swags.
Work Carried Out
- Protection of flooring and furnishings within the working area
- Methodical removal and labelling of each crystal component
- Hand cleaning of every drop using a non-ammonia crystal-safe solution
- Cleaning of the arms, frame and fittings
- Reassembly with each component returned to its original position
- Electrical test of lamps and connections
Approach
A traditional approach was followed throughout: every drop was unhooked by hand, cleaned individually and reinstated in the position it had previously occupied, leaving the original dressing and arrangement undisturbed.
Outcome
The chandelier was returned to an even clarity across all tiers, with the cut crystal again carrying light through the room. No element of the original design was altered. A further Maria Theresa piece is recorded in our Twickenham Maria Theresa cleaning, with additional nineteenth-century hand-cleaning projects in Mayfair and Holland Park.
