About Marvin Alexander, Inc

M. Alexander—fondly called “the crystal cave” by Town and Country—is renowned for its exceptional antique and reproduction lighting, ranging from the Renaissance to Mid-Century Modern eras. The curated collection features chandeliers, wall sconces, table lamps, and distinctive period decorative accessories.

The L’Etoile Collection by M. Alexander showcases exquisite European-made reproductions, spanning early 18th-century styles to Art Moderne. Each piece reflects close collaboration with leading designers, decorators, architects, and discerning clients, utilizing specialty materials such as Murano glass, hand-carved alabaster, and 21-karat gilding.

Couture Shades - Our bespoke, hand-sewn shades are true works of art. Designed and crafted in our New York City studio, these custom lampshades can be tailored from a wide variety of fabrics and shapes, offering styles that range from traditional and modern to entirely innovative.

Director David Reitner

David Reitner upholds the M. Alexander legacy of handcrafting and sourcing the world’s finest lighting. Beginning as an apprentice to Mr. Alexander during the launch of the L’Etoile Collection, he designed fixtures inspired by exceptional antique models. David also creates bespoke lighting for private clients, using antique components to craft one-of-a-kind pieces as coveted as the originals in the M. Alexander collection.

History

In 1958, Marvin Alexander opened a namesake showroom specializing in antique lighting fixtures. As his reputation flourished, so did his exceptional collection. Over the years, Mr. Alexander became the nation’s leading source for antique lighting, serving as a consultant to the Kennedy White House and collaborating with First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy on the restoration of the mansion’s museum-quality lighting. In the early 1980s, recognizing the declining availability of outstanding antiques, he established the L’Etoile Collection of fine reproduction lighting.

The Company We Keep

Since its founding, M. Alexander Lighting has collaborated with leading designers including Alexa Hampton, Bunny Williams, Cullman & Kravis, and Jamie Drake, as well as design legends such as Albert Hadley, Alberto Pinto, Bruce Gregga, David Easton, Mark Hampton, Mario Buatta, and Robert A. M. Stern.