Yes, I understand a light makes a statement in the usual sense. My question is if a chandelier is an absolute necessity.

you could use pendant lights in place of a chandelier.

I don’t think so, as long as there’s lighting close by so one can see their food. I have a dimmable lamp on a side table in my small dining area, it’s plenty together with the living room lighting.

I suppose a chandelier is not "required" but aesthetically looks better in a dining space. I searched for dining rooms with no chandelier and could not find any. It's like having an open kitchen with enough can lights to light up the room, yet pendants probably aren't neccessary but are included to create ambiance when needed.

I've seen open floorplan houses with kitchen dining living all in a row without a chandelier over the dining. It can appear too busy. Recessed lights are needed of course.