Pre-WWII Paris Flee Market Antique Patinated Crystals Candelabra. Two candle. 21-1/2” tall, 13” wide, 5 lbs 4.5 ozs.

In 1937, my grandparents went through Europe, my grandfather visiting 40 research, both academic industrial and government research facilities, while grandmother shopped. This candelabra was part of a pair (the other, in total disrepair, will be included), purchased at the famous Paris Flea Market. I’ve included a B&W photo taken in the 1950’s, of them in their living room (photo not included).

For those interested in what my grandfather brought back, if you search around, you’ll find an account of it online from his autobiography. In essence, German scientist reached out because they knew what the Nazis were asking of them in terms of nuclear potential. So the “sweetheart” tour in England, France through Switzerland into Germany and then Sweden, was set up as a cover story for pertinent discoveries. At the time, Harvey Fletcher was Director of Physical Research at Bell Laboratories.