Antiques -> Decorative Arts -> Lamps
Whether you are trying to restore an older home and would like to keep it in the period style, or you just appreciate older light fixtures, antique lighting has much to offer. There are many different styles from Victorian, to Art Deco to Modern that can adorn any home, working or non, and give it a certain special charm. Before you buy antique lighting however, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you will need to make sure whether or not the antique lighting is operational. There is a risk for electrocution or fire whenever you are dealing with older lamps, and it is vital to have it properly checked out before you plug it in. If there are any loose wires, or the cord appears to be frayed, you should have it repaired immediately. Failing to do so could result in serious injury and lose of property.
Although antique lighting is beautiful, there are few issues that are present with older shades. Some of the material that was used back many years ago was quite flammable. Add that to a dried out and old shade, and you have a very serious fire risk. Consider replacing the shade, or look for antique lighting that has a glass shade so that you don’t have to worry about it.
Another thing to think about when you are buying antique lighting is the bulb that will be needed. Many very old lamps will have used bulbs that are no longer available and converting them may be impossible. While they make great display pieces, they won’t be able to be used. Always think about the type of bulb and make sure that replacements are easily available.
If you are buying a chandelier, it will be necessary to make sure that the cables are intact and not frayed, for safety reasons. You may also need to dip the crystal in an ammonia solution if it is very dirty. Chandeliers made of other materials will need to be cleaned as well. Always test the chandelier to make sure it works before you actually install it. Some antique lighting may not be operational and it’s best to find this out before you go to the trouble of installing it in your ceiling.
Lastly, if you are interested in Tiffany style antique lighting, it is important to make sure you are getting an authentic piece. There are many different styles of lamps that look very similar to the ones popularized by Louis Comfort Tiffany, but they are not as valuable as his original creations. Read up about this style of lamp before you go shopping to ensure that you are getting the best deal. With a little extra care, you can be assured that your lamp will be the valuable collectible you think it is.
Antique lighting is a unique decorative collectible and it’s one that is easy to find. If your home décor needs a bit of a boost, consider adding an antique lamp for a special touch.
Originally posted 2008-10-06 14:16:13. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
Antique Bench Antiques -> Furniture -> Benches, Stools: 1800-1899, 1900-1950, Post 1950 One great way to add function and beauty to any home is by purchasing a unique antique bench. There are many different types of collectible benches that can be found in antique stores around the world, but it is important...... -
Antique Bird Cages Dealers -> Antiques -> Decorative-Arts Years ago, before the introduction of plastics and resins, even animals’ indoor homes like antique bird cages were considered beautiful pieces of furniture. Of course, some were plain and utilitarian, but many more were actually created in the popular furniture styles of the times. Bird...... -
Sideboard Dealers -> Furniture -> Cabinets-Armoires-Cupboards A sideboard is a piece of furniture used to display China or to set food out while dining. The sideboards we’re familiar with first appeared in the 1700s, but became more popular in the 1800s when more people had dining rooms to eat in, and...... -
Where and How to Buy Antique Furniture Unless you are shopping around in a museum, it may be difficult to buy antique furniture dated before the 16th century. Collectors are generally only able to obtain pieces of furniture from the 1485 to 1600 Tudor Period and onwards, and even the furniture selection from this period is relatively...... - Antique Chinese Parrot Antiques -> Asian -> Chinese If you are interested in a unique Asian collectible that is sure to get plenty of discussions going, antique Chinese parrots are an excellent choice. These delightful decorative collectibles come in many different shapes and styles and many are vibrantly colored and well designed. Most......
Related Websites -
How to Install Recessed Lighting Recessed lighting is a great way to add some modern flair to any room in your home. It looks especially snazzy in the living room or kitchen, where you can focus the light in on key features in the room. Recessed lighting is exactly what it sounds like – instead...... - Questions To Answer Before Buying A House Although owning a home may be a dream come true for most people, make sure you are firmly grounded in reality when you begin your search for your fairy tale castle. It's important to use your head and consider the practical aspects of home buying before jumping into a......
-
Replacing Light Fixtures One of the easiest ways to improve the appearance of a room is by changing out a light fixture. Whether you are looking to upgrade a dated fixture, or you are looking for a solution that will provide you with more usable light, replacing a fixture is typically the best...... - Collectible Bottles Collectibles -> Bottles and Insulators -> Bottles-> Antique (Pre-1930) One of the most unique forms of collectibles are bottles and you’d be surprised at just how many you can find. Ranging from antiques that were produced in the 1900’s, to ones that are just rolling off the assembly line right......
-
Review: NYX Lips Update: I added Golden Luster and Rhea to the swatches. NYX had a really great sale on these, so I took the package 30 lippies, out of 60, regularly $120 for $24. How could I go wrong? For the price, basically, of one Chanel lippie, I could have 30!!! And......
