A rare George I Giltwood Chandelier © Christie's Images Ltd 2008
Culture Secretary Barbara Follett has placed a temporary export ban on a rare George I Giltwood Chandelier.
The temporary ban offers the last chance for bidders to raise the money to keep the historically significant chandelier in the UK.
The decision follows the recommendation by the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest, administered by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council.
"This chandelier is probably the largest and almost certainly the most magnificent survivor of a very rare type," said Simon Swynfen Jervis, Reviewing Committee member. "It has much to tell us about the history of English giltwood lighting with regard to design, to techniques, and to wider significances. And it is a spectacular object.”
Giltwood carving was an important art in its own right and allowed scope for larger designs than would have been practical in a heavier material such as bronze.
Experts have valued the chandelier at £337,250 and the decision on the export ban will be deferred until January 31 and could be put back until April next year if a serious bid to raise funds is presented.
The chandelier dates back to 1719 and was made by the Royal Cabinet Maker James Moore and measures 124cm high by 100cm wide.
Anyone interested in making an offer to purchase the chandelier should contact the owner's agent through:
The Secretary, The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest Museums, Libraries and Archives Council, Wellcome Wolfson Building, 165 Queen's Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5HD, Telephone 020 7273 8270.
