An iconic large mid-century Met Auditorium exploding star / starburst Sputnik chandelier, designed by Hans Harald Rath in 1966 and executed by J. & L. Lobmeyr, Austria. This chandelier is identical to those presented by the Republic of Austria in 1966 as a gift for the opening of the new Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center, New York. Dated around the 2000s, this impressive Austrian chandelier is entirely handmade of polished brass and adorned with numerous sparkling, hand-cut Swarovski crystals. It remains in excellent original condition and is complete. The fixture features 16 light sources and has just been rewired for U.S. standards (E12) using only UL-listed materials. We are also pleased to rewire it free of charge to meet your country’s standards (e.g., Europe). It measures 40 inches in diameter, with a total drop height of 58 inches, while the fixture itself is approximately 22 inches high. We are happy to adjust the drop height to your specifications at no additional cost. This is a spectacular chandelier with a beautiful history, preserved in excellent condition. Side note: The inspiration for this design came from the architect of the Met, Edward K. Harrison, who presented images of distant galaxies. According to family legend, the very first prototype was demonstrated using a potato with toothpicks.