NETHERLANDISH, SECOND HALF 17TH CENTURY

During the 16th Century, most of the brass and bronze objects to be found in the churches of the Netherlands, had been destroyed to help the war effort. Therefore there was a great demand for chandeliers in the 17th Century and Amsterdam became the leading centre for brassfoundry in the republic. This was further encouraged by the new style of service in the Dutch reformed church, whereby the community was required to sing hymns and psalms and therefore needed more adequate lighting.