The Historical Beauty of Victorian Lamps 

People often speak of the Victorian era, but few really understand the meaning of this time period and its influence on the history of our world and indeed in many of the common objects we use each and every day like the table lamp.  At a time when the Industrial Revolution was bringing about revolutionary changes such as electricity and indoor plumbing, the world was also introduced to the elegance, the splendor, and the uncompromising beauty of Victorian lamps and other light fixtures. 

Much like Louis Tiffany when creating his ornate lamps and light fixtures, designers in the Victorian tradition made use of electricity itself to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of lighting fixtures.  Electricity created the illumination while the Victorian table lamps were made with ornate and colorful shades that diffused that light so that the space was bathed in a soothing ambiance. 

Named after the longest reigning British ruler of the time, Queen Victoria, traditional homes of the Victorian Style became known for their organized and ornate nature.  It was considered to be keeping in poor taste for anyone not to keep their home in pristine order and filled with keepsakes and furnishings that reflected the tastes and ambitions of the owner.  Victorian table lamps, therefore, were traditionally created to reflect a refinement of character aesthetically while functionally illuminating the space. 

There really is no one single design influence that helped shape the Victorian Era nor any of the lighting fixtures created in this ornate style.  Recognized influences that helped imbue the Victorian lamps and fixtures with so much style and regal sophistication include:  Tudor, Romantic Elizabethan, and the Gothic design tradition.  Collectively, these varying sources of inspiration helped create some of the most lavish and sophisticated lamps, chandeliers, wall sconces, and other light fixtures ever created. 

Light fixtures crafted in the Victorian Style will tend to feature liberal use of curves and smooth, flowing lines.  Spiraling floral and vine patterns are frequent motifs found on shades and in many cases the bases themselves.  Sometimes, a Victorian light fixture will have intricate design contrasted with the use of a delicate an ornate textile like silk on the lampshade.  Ornate glass featuring geometric design is another common feature found on Victorian styled lamps and fixtures.  Collectively, these ornate and refined elements combine to create some of the most exquisitely crafted and designed light fixtures ever created. 

Aside from the obvious, Victorian lamps and light fixtures also tend to really enhance and bring out the character in Traditional and European interior design schemes.