Ready to Tackle This Project

I'm finally ready to tackle this monster of a job! My intention is to paint the lower half of the table and all of the chairs in black. The top of the table will be stained. I do plan on sanding the top of the table, but because of all the twists and turns of the spindles I can't see myself tackling that job, but I will sand the straighter parts of the table and chairs. My question to you ~ without sanding the spindles, can I still get good adhesion using spray paint? If so, what type of spray paint do you suggest? This dining set is well over 100 years old, and I've seen it go through several different looks over the years, with the current look being done back in the late 70's by a professional refinisher.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can pass my way!