What is the difference between a lamp and a lantern?

The difference between a lamp and a lantern is that a floor lamp or a table lamp is a generally stationary fixture, whereas lanterns are portable. Lanterns are typically designed with hooks or hoops on top, to allow them to be carried or hung, and today's lanterns' window panes are usually made of glass or plastic.

It's worth pointing out that exceptions to this “portable versus stationary” rule can be found in lanterns that are intentionally designed as permanent lighting fixtures for a space, whether it's to serve as patio lighting outdoors or to illuminate a living room.

There are many types of lighting to consider for your home, and since the days that saw lanterns powered by whale oil, kerosene and later, coal oil, lighting artisans have worked to refine and perfect these innovative fixtures so that they aren’t only practical but also elegant, sophisticated additions to home decor.

Find antique and vintage lamps and other lighting on 1stDibs.