how does it look with the danglies off?

Well I love it as is, but I certainly think you could modernize it by either painting it white or silver.

This type of fixture is coming back, brass and all. The problem I think is that its very formal for a kitchen and wondering if you painted it white, it would feel less formal and more fun. Adding shades will make it feel even less kitcheny and maybe you could consider moving it to a bedroom or hallway.

Crystorama Paris Market 4 Light Clear Crystal White Mini Chandelier · More Info

If you paint it hot pink, neon green or glass black it would modernize it with a funky flair. Or bright gloss yellow, turquoise or purple. Whatever color goes with your kitchen. Or you could use it in a bathroom, painted any color. I would not use a metallic finish.

First I'd try to sell it. The brass is back en vogue and this style is popular in the right decor.

If you like the overall design, first remove all the prisms and soak in warm water with vinegar and some dish soap. dry and buff with soft cloth. You'll be amazed how much they will sparkle again. I would then spray paint the whole thing including the candle covers in a high gloss color or the silver tones as suggested. I suggest the silver hammered spray paint or for sleeker look use Duthchboy Chrome silver paint which looks like polished aluminum. The bulbs can be replaced with the more decorative faceted ones or round makeup ones for more contemporary look. Not a fan of shades, especially with the number of bulbs so close together.

Another suggestion that may require additional help from a lamp store or electrician is to add taller candles, about double what they are now. There are several ways to do this depending on what type socket is under the cover.

Hope that is helpful.

You know this sounds really bad for people that love old things, but I would spray paint it to match your cabinet handles. Or a color that you love. I was in our local lighting place and saw so many brushed nickel fixtures with glass crystals like yours for hundreds of dollars. Or you could sell it on Craig's list and buy new. I have seen them painted antique white for a farm house look with actual wood painted drops, instead of crystals.

Great ideas here.

Thank you all for great advice! I think it actually makes me realize that no matter what I do to it, it will probably not look the way I want it to. There are just too many ornate details that I personally don't care for. It will probably be better in the hands of someone who will appreciate it as it is....while I go buy something much more simple and modern :). I do love chandeliers...actually anything that sparkles but just not this one. I have several others in my house that I love. So do I sell it on ebay? How do I figure out the price? I looked around a little bit. Found something similar but much smaller that was selling for $225 so mine must be worth more than that.

if it goes with the age of your house, i'd just set it aside in a safe place. next buyer may be way more excited than someone on craigslist. (you can put it on at a good price and if it doesnt go for high, don't sell it for cheap)

we have a similar chandelier, original to our house, had been gas but later wired. i clean it every october, this year for the 145th time, assuming it was cleaned once a year.

I realize this is an old post but had to comment. I love the idea of turning a chandelier upside down and making it a downlight of sorts. It should give much the same lighting although there may be points of light on the table but I wouldn't mind that so much.