All Photos By Gail

Famous for his striking interpretations in the design of crystal chandeliers, Hans Harald Rath assumed control of Austrian brand J &L Lobmeyr in the late thirties.  He was the fourth generation family member to manage the company, now known as Lobmeyr. Rath’s starburst designs evoke a celestial theme that were greeted by an ovation when they were first revealed in 1966.

In that same year, Rath partnered with Architect  Erich Boltenstern to create the Sputnik Cylinder Chandelier for the foyer of the Innsbruck State Theater in Austria.

A round cylinder made of nickel-plated brass, the crystal elements of the piece are grouped in the shape of rays and create an impressive play of light. The full chandelier stands 108-inches high and 31.5-inches in diameter. As you can see, it is quite breathtaking and was a definite showstopper at  the 2021 Salon Art + Design, where I photographed it in the booth for Karl Kemp Antiques in Downtown Manhattan.