Maison Charles, the goldsmithery of lighting

Maison Charles, founded in Paris in the early 20th century, is one of the last great French houses to perpetuate a rare art: designing lighting fixtures in chiselled, gold-leafed bronze. For three generations, the workshop has signed lamps and sconces that are less utilitarian objects than goldsmith sculptures. The Pineapple, Bamboo, Branch and Reed models, designed in the 60s-70s, have become absolute references in French haute décoration lighting, halfway between classical tradition and contemporary gesture.

Maison Charles lamps, particularly the iconic Pineapple model in gold-plated bronze, are now particularly sought-after pieces on the French vintage decoration market. Second-hand or in recent editions, they bring to an interior that precious signature unique to great Parisian houses.