The fine brass, copper and silver metalware produced by distinguished manufacturer Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik (WMF) has adorned the tabletops of restaurants, hotels and homes around the world. WMF is especially prized by collectors for its Art Nouveau works of the late 19th century and Art Deco pieces manufactured throughout the early 20th century.
WMF traces its beginnings to 1880 when the merger of Straub & Sohn and Ritter & Co. formed the public limited company Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik. The company initially focused on tableware and decorative pieces, such as vases and planters. In 1892, WMF introduced its patented “perfect hard silver plating,” a technology that distributes twice as much silver to the sections of cutlery that experience the most wear, allowing the whole piece to hold its luster longer than other silver-plated products.
In 1905, WMF acquired a majority holding of Orivit AG, a company in Cologne that manufactured products from a tin alloy, further expanding its range of materials. By 1910, its main facility in Geislingen, Germany, employed 4,000 workers. It had branches in Vienna, Warsaw and London, and printed a catalog in 12 languages.
As a German business, WMF experienced extensive asset loss in the aftermath of the world wars. However, by 1950, its main facility once again had a workforce of more than 3,000 employees, and its high-quality products returned to popularity. There was an increase in demand for its Cromargan cutlery as well as work by WMF’s preeminent lighting designer, Wilhelm Wagenfeld.
By the 1960s, WMF’s main facility had 5,800 employees. More factories were opened to keep up with demand. WMF is now one of the largest manufacturers of metalware in the world and continues to produce pieces of superb quality. The company has over 200 branches in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and owns branches in 40 other countries.
On 1stDibs, explore serveware, decorative objects, lighting and more from Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik (WMF).
WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ceiling Lamp Chandelier
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Miami, FL
WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ceiling Lamp. Made in Germany, 1930s Nickel plated brass. Signed. Wiring has been update...
Nickel, Brass, Steel
WMF, Chandelier, Nickel, Glass, Germany, 1930s
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in High Point, NC
A nickel and opaline glass chandelier produced by WMF, Germany, c. 1930s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 43” H x 26” Diameter Dimensions of Canopy: 3.5” H x 3.5” W x 3.5” D Bulb Spe...
Nickel
2 Hanging Lamps Art Deco, German, Wmf Design, 1930 in Iridescent Glass
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik
Located in Ciudad Autónoma Buenos Aires, C
Logistics and International Shipping We provide a comprehensive export service so that your only concern is enjoying your acquisition. • Door-to-Door Service: Pieces located in our A...
Chrome
$5,682
H 22.84 in Dm 31.5 in
Exceptional Bauhaus / Art Deco Chandelier or Pendant Lamp, 1930s, Germany
Located in Munich, DE
Gorgeous and minimalistic Bauhaus / Art Deco five-armed chandelier / pendant lamp. Designed and manufactured in 1930s, Germany. Executed in nickel-plated brass and glass, the cha...
Brass
$2,100
H 23.63 in Dm 11.82 in
Art Deco Peter Behrens Light Fixture Chandelier, Opal Glass Nickel, Germany 1910
By Siemens, Peter Behrens
Located in Hausmannstätten, AT
A German glass and nickel light fixture with nice patina designed by Peter Behrens, manufactured circa 1910. The lamp shade is made of two glasses: an opaline white glass at the top ...
Metal, Copper
French Art Deco Frosted High Art Glass Patined Brass Pendant, 1930s
Located in Frankfurt am Main, DE
An elegant Art Deco high relief glass pendant, light fixture, France 1930-1939, frosted glass globe with beautiful detailing, patinated brass moun...
Brass
Brass Crystal Chandelier Antique Ceiling Lamp Lustre Art Nouveau Lamp
Located in Berlin, DE
Introducing our Exquisite Antik Chandelier – a masterpiece of elegance and style that seamlessly complements any space with a touch of timeless beauty. With its stunning details and ...
Crystal, Brass
Art Deco / Functionalist Nickel Chandelier, 1930s
Located in Praha, CZ
Art Deco chandelier made of nickel and opaline glass in 1930s. Restored, cleaned, polished, rewired. Nickel with age patina. 4x40W, E25-E27 bubs US wiring compatible
Nickel
Bauhaus Chandelier Czechoslovakia 1930s Milk Glass Chrome Pendant
Located in Praha, CZ
Bauhaus Chandelier Czechoslovakia 1930s Milk Glass Chrome Pendant Description (high-performance): Authentic Bauhaus chandelier from 1930s Czechoslovakia. This elegant pendant light f...
Metal, Chrome
$1,064
H 25.6 in Dm 15.75 in
French Art Deco Amber Chandelier & Pendant Light in Degué Style Thick Glass 1930
By Degué
Located in Coimbra, PT
Beautiful French Art Deco chandelier or pendant with amber glass shade with floral and geometric pattern in the style of Degué. Me...
Metal
Art Deco Nickel Chandelier with Champagne Glass, Czechoslovakia 1930s
Located in Praha, CZ
A refined Art Deco chandelier crafted in Czechoslovakia during the 1930s, distinguished by its elegant nickel-plated metal frame and softly glowing champagne-colored glass shades. Th...
Metal, Nickel
German 1930s Cubist Bauhaus Chandelier Pendant
Located in New York, NY
A rare original unique Cubist Bauhaus pendant chandelier with an unusual cube frame and decorative cube glass shades. Newly rewired.Located in our New ...
Chrome
Brass Crystal Chandelier Antique Ceiling Lamp Lustre Art Nouveau Lamp
Located in Berlin, DE
We present to you an exquisite Art Nouveau brass chandelier chandelier ceiling light a real rarity and an antique jewel. This vintage chandelier was lovingly and professionally resto...
Crystal, Brass, Wire
$2,990
H 30 in Dm 15.9 in
French Pure Art Deco Glass Pendant Light / Chandelier, Daum Pierre D'Avesn 1930s
By Pierre D'Avesn, Daum
Located in Lisse, NL
Another top quality made, antique French Art Deco pendant light with the wow factor. This Art Deco chandelier by Pierre D'Avesn was all hand-crafted at Daum's (Croismare, Nancy) stu...
Brass
Art Deco Glass Lamp, 1930s, Germany
Located in Hagenbach, DE
This striking Art Deco glass pendant lamp from 1930s Germany is a refined example of early modern lighting design. Its elegant, flattened dome silhouette reflects the streamlined aes...
Glass
Art Deco WMF Ikora Metal Ceiling Lamp
By WMF Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, Richard Riemerschmid
Located in Berghuelen, DE
A rare WMF Ikora ceiling lamp. Made of green patinated metal with etched ring decoration in the manner of the class Richard Riemerschmid. Complete extant, with the original glass ins...