Capodimonte Chandeliers – Own a Capodimonte, Own a Piece of Italian History

Capodimonte is a name that is synonymous with Italian porcelain and china of the highest quality and value. It was originally the site of a porcelain mass-production factory in Naples, during the reign of King Charles III in the mid 18th century. The king had ordered the Royal Factory built and had also hired the best artists and sculptors in an attempt to overtake the leading porcelain manufacturing factory of the time.

Today, Capodimonte porcelain chandeliers are made with a heavy and rigid look, but with exquisite designs that produce a flower-blossoming feel. They are hung from the ceiling with thin chains and connected with a strong middle stem piece, and finally flourishing out to separate candelabra petals. In addition to that, Capodimonte designs are accentuated with gold trimmings throughout the entire piece accompanied by single buds of beautifully painted flowers hanging from each curving stem-arm.

Another characteristic of a Capodimonte lights is the patches of floral decorations covering the whole chandelier with the occasionally two or three sculpted cherubs atop the stem-piece. Lighting fixtures may come in pinched-flame candelabra that flatter the emanating light rays, or in open globes of frosted glass which keep flames intact. All in all, these porcelain chandeliers have come a long way since its historical beginnings in Italy.

The elegance and the history of Capodimonte style chandeliers have the ability to add a sense of nostalgia to living rooms. However, it is hard to lay your hands on an authentic Capodimonte lighting piece nowadays as many imitations have been produced and is sold widely in the market. Even though the logo of a crowned N is used as label of authenticity, the famed name of Capodimonte has stimulated the growth of many replicas which claim to be of an equaled level of quality.

The original Capodimonte Italian chandeliers which were produced during the period of King Charles III are now in the safe hands of museums and wealthy collectors. Today, many of these chandeliers that are available in the market and which are labeled as Capodimonte are imitations of the originals.