MARIUS-ERNEST SABINO
During the 1920s and 1930s, the world of glass artisans was rich with talent, featuring renowned names like René Lalique, Etling, Hunebelle, D'Avesn, Verlys, and Jobling. Among these, Marius-Ernest Sabino emerged as one of the most prolific and influential figures, particularly known for his expertise in lighting.
Marius-Ernest Sabino, born on September 9, 1878, in Acireale, Sicily, moved to France at the age of four. In Paris, he studied woodcarving, following his father's footsteps, and later attended L'Ecole Nationale des Arts Decoratifs et de Beaux Arts (the National School of Decorative and Fine Arts). Sabino's fascination with the burgeoning technology of electricity led him to replace his initial wooden chandelier models with innovative glass designs that effectively diffused light.
After World War I, Sabino collaborated with a glazier in Romilly-sur-Andelle before establishing his own factory in Noisy-le-Sec, along with large stores in the Marais district of Paris. His expertise in glass relief sculpture garnered significant attention, particularly at the International Exhibition of Decorative Arts in Paris in 1925, a year that marked the peak of his creative output. Sabino's chandeliers gained immense popularity, aligning perfectly with the light-themed architecture of the era.
Sabino's reputation for creating exquisite decorative lighting led to prestigious commissions, including designing lighting for ocean liners such as the S.S. Ile de France in 1927 and the S.S. Normandie in 1935. His fame continued to grow, and by 1935, he was commissioned to produce all the electric light fittings and chandeliers for the palace of the Shah of Persia. His business expanded internationally, with outlets in Algiers, Oran, Tunis, and Constantinople.
Sabino's lighting creations were notable for their use of crystal iridescent blue, also known as "golden glass" in Britain. He achieved this unique opalescence by adding arsenic, which later extended to shades of purple and yellow. His chandeliers and other lighting pieces were celebrated for their meticulous craftsmanship, combining innovative techniques with luxurious aesthetics.
A typical day for Sabino involved instructing his draftsman and sculptor, while the cast glass production was subcontracted. Quality control was stringent at his Noisy-le-Sec plant, ensuring that each piece met his high standards. Variations in the appearance of his signature on different pieces are attributed to the different workers responsible for this task.
The models that achieved the greatest success were those created before 1939, as the German occupation during World War II led to the closure of Sabino's glass plants. During this period, some pieces were cast in metal alloy. After the war, due to illness, Sabino retired, and his artistic and commercial directors continued his work. Although his molds were no longer used, production of his designs continued until 1975, well after his death in 1961 at the age of 83. Pieces bearing his name continued to be made after this period, as his molds were sold to an American company that continues to manufacture in France.
Marius-Ernest Sabino's legacy as a master of Art Deco lighting endures. His innovative use of glass and light, combined with his dedication to craftsmanship, has left an indelible mark on the world of decorative arts. Sabino's creations remain highly sought after by collectors and continue to inspire contemporary designers.
COLLECTION
This stunning and graphic Art Deco chandelier was realized and signed by Sabino in France circa 1935. It offers a starburst pattern consisting of eight frosted glass shades etched with a graphic pattern of overlaid and stacked rectangular forms (suggestive of shooting light rays). There is a skyscraper frosted glass embellishment at the base secured by a satin nickel orbital finial. The shade connects to a tiered skyscraper style canopy in satin nickel via a faceted rod in the same Material. With its beautiful attention to detail and clean modernist lines, this fixture is as versatile as it is stunning, blending perfectly with any style of interior from Classic Deco to contemporary. It has been newly rewired to American standards and is in excellent vintage condition. The height can be adjusted to suit. The chandelier accommodates eight candelabra based bulbs offering up to 480 watts of light. Signed Sabino.
France, circa 1935.
Dimensions:
Height: 42 in (106.68 cm) x Diameter: 38 in (96.52 cm)
Glass Height: 12"
Creator: Marius-Ernst Sabino (Maker)
Power Source: Hardwired
Style: Art Deco (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Glass, Nickel
Place of Origin: France
Period: 1930-1939
Date of Manufacture: circa 1935
Condition: Excellent, Rewired.
Reference Number: LU793433425212
This exceptional Art Deco chandelier, crafted in France circa 1935, exemplifies the bold elegance and craftsmanship for which Sabino is celebrated. Featuring an expansive design, the chandelier is composed of molded frosted glass shades, each signed individually to denote its authenticity and quality. The shades are adorned with an abstract stylized feather motif, adding a graceful, organic element to the design's geometric structure.
The lower portion of the chandelier showcases a stunning frosted glass diffuser, complemented by a finely detailed stepped skyscraper-style canopy that emphasizes the sleek, architectural lines iconic to the Art Deco aesthetic. A harmonious blend of organic forms and geometric sophistication, this chandelier is both a functional lighting piece and a statement of timeless design. It is an extraordinary centerpiece for discerning collectors and a testament to Sabino's enduring legacy in decorative glasswork. Newly rewired to American Standards and with height that can be adjusted to suit, this chandelier accommodates 11 Candelabra Based Bulbs offering 660 watts of light.
France, Circa 1935
Dimensions:
Overall Height: 41 in (104.14 cm) x Diameter: 40 in (101.6 cm)
Diameter of Canopy: 13"
Creator: Marius-Ernest Sabino (Maker)
Power Source: Hardwired
Style: Art Deco (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Glass
Place of Origin: France
Period: 1930-1939
Date of Manufacture: circa 1935
Condition: Excellent. Rewired.
Reference Number: LU793445557072
This lovely pair of molded and frosted glass sconces, featuring a charming floral motif, is a beautiful creation by Sabino from France, circa 1940. The delicate craftsmanship of the frosted glass highlights the intricate floral designs, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to any space. The sconces are complemented by gleaming brass fittings, which enhance their vintage appeal and provide a rich contrast to the softly diffused glass. These sconces stand as a testament to the exquisite detail and artistry that Sabino is known for, making them a perfect addition for anyone who appreciates the timeless beauty of early 20th-century French design. Newly rewired to American Standards, these sconces accommodate one candelabra base bulb achieving up to 60 watts of light each. In Excellent Vintage Condition.
France, Circa 1940
Dimensions:
Height: 6 in (15.24 cm) x Width: 8 in (20.32 cm) x Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
Creator: Marius-Ernest Sabino (Maker)
Sold As: Set of 2
Power Source: Hardwired
Style: Art Deco (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Brass, Glass
Place of Origin: France
Period: 1940-1949
Date of Manufacture: circa 1940
Condition: Excellent. Rewired.
Reference Number: LU793444056942
This stunning and important Art Deco chandelier was realized and signed by Sabino in France, circa 1935. Combining the opulent decoration of high style Art Deco with the economy of form of the Machine Age, this piece represents not only a striking but an important piece of 20th century design history. It features a frosted glass shade consisting of three stacked skyscraper style cubic forms. The sides are imprinted with rectangular patterns in relief, while the bottom of the shade has cubic decorations also in heightened relief. Stacked plinth forms protruding into the three dimensions sit at each corner of the lower tier. The shade connects to a silvered bronze base via four rectangular rods (in the same material). The base offers a wealth of classic Deco motifs including fan and streamlined forms, concentric square forms, and striations. With its iconically Art Deco sensibility (and materials) by one of the great makers of the period, this piece is sure to delight discerning collectors of 1930s design as well as those with a penchant for all things exquisite. It has been newly rewired to American standards. The chandelier accommodates four Edison based bulbs offering up to 400 watts of light. Signed Sabino.The height can be adjusted to suit.
France, circa 1935.
Dimensions:
Height: 28.5 in (72.39 cm) x Width: 19 in (48.26 cm) x Depth: 19 in (48.26 cm)
Glass Height: 9"
Creator: Marius-Ernest Sabino (Designer)
Power Source: Hardwired
Style: Art Deco (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Bronze, Glass
Place of Origin: France
Period: 1930-1939
Date of Manufacture: circa 1935
Condition: Excellent, Rewired.
Reference Number: LU793433428562