The chain for all Zeitz chandeliers is an innovation unique to his work. The Links are carved from thick wall tubing with welded tab and connectors. The surface matches the lamp body with brazed surfaces. This is very carefully done, to get even effects and care not to overheat the metal. This creates an ancient look like the work has been dug up from a Roman or Etruscan site.

In 1987, I built my first lighting fixture for over the dining table in the new home (see Candelabra Chandelier). I cut James Platineau Olive Oil bottles and fluted the edge. The metal is cut, carved, and brazed steel for the body of the lamp and the fluted and spiraling chain. I showed it to a designer in New York and they suggested making an electrified version. I was interested in Roman and Etruscan artifacts that I had seen at the Metropolitan Museum of Art that used metal to hold up glass or ceramic objects. The brazed metal has the look of something ancient. I went on to design and build scores of lighting fixtures all over the country.

Recently found sketch pad that I used at the Metropolitan Museum that day in 1987. Here are a few sketches (left) done in situation, and a drawing for the idea of the cut and beveled bottle candelabra (below).

This is a good example of being influenced by a method or style in construction of an object. I liked the feel of the Etruscan artifacts and did some sketches but I did not copy any design to build these chandeliers. I made it my own by exploring the materials and using flutes and spirals as a design element, so it has the “feel” of an ancient object but is actually something new