Pair of Three-Arm Art Nouveau Candelabra, designed by Friedrich Adler
This rare and elegant pair of three-arm Art Nouveau candelabra was designed by Friedrich Adler (1878–1942) around 1900 and produced by Osiris – Metallwarenfabrik für Kleinkunst Walter Scherf & Co. in Nuremberg. Expertly crafted from polished pewter, their lustrous silver-like finish reflects the innovative spirit and craftsmanship of the Jugendstil movement.
The design features flowing lines and organic, nature-inspired forms: a central stem rises gracefully before branching into sculptural, tree-like arms supporting the candle sockets. This harmonious balance of symmetry and natural movement is characteristic of Adler’s mastery in blending fine art with functional design.
Friedrich Adler was one of the most important designers of his era, active as an architect, product designer, and professor at the Kunstgewerbeschule in Hamburg. His work was instrumental in shaping early 20th-century design, bridging Art Nouveau and the emerging Art Deco style.
Founded in 1899 by Walter Scherf, the Osiris company specialized in high-quality pewter decorative arts and collaborated with leading designers including Adler, Peter Behrens, and Hans Christiansen. Osiris became renowned for its innovative, artistically ambitious designs that brought fine metalwork to a wider audience.
Osiris produced these candelabra in versions ranging from two to five arms, with this three-arm model prized for its elegance, proportion, and sculptural presence. Today, they are considered rare and highly collectible examples of Friedrich Adler’s Art Nouveau metalwork, sought after by collectors of Jugendstil and early modernist design.
Details:
Manufacturer: OSIRIS / Metallwarenfabrik für Kleinkunst Walter Scherf & Co
Designer: Friedrich Adler
Model: Candelabra – 3-arm
Signature: “Osiris”
Style: Jugendstil
Material: Polished pewter
Color: Silver
Period: 1900 / 1909
Dimensions:
Height: 41,5cm / 16.34”
Width: 29cm / 11.42″
Diameter base: 17,5cm / 6.89″
Condition: Both candelabra are in excellent condition and have been carefully cleaned and polished.
Literature:
Arnoldsche Art Publishers. Friedrich Adler: Zwischen Jugendstil und Art Déco. Stuttgart: Arnoldsche, 1994, p. 173.
Price: This item is currently reserved
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