Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why is it called festoon lighting?
1 Answer

The story of why it is called festoon lighting begins with the history of this type of fixture. Festoon originates from the Latin word for a feast, festun. The ancient Romans and Greeks once decorated for large feasts by hanging garlands above the tables. Once in place, these swags of greenery and flowers formed visually appealing curves. Festoon lighting has a similar curved effect when attached to a wall or a ceiling at various points. You may also see festoon lighting referred to as string lights, fairy lights or party lights. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of lighting from some of the world's top sellers.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
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Shop for Lighting on 1stDibs
Large Vintage Glass Ceiling or Wall Light Flushmount, 1960s
Located in Berlin, DE
Wonderful vintage hand made blown glass flushmount.
Germany, 1960s.
Lamp sockets: E27 (US E26).
.
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount
Materials
Glass
Italian vintage Murano chandelier - 41 acid-etched amber glass petals
By Mazzega
Located in Gaiarine Frazione Francenigo (TV), IT
Huge Italian vintage Murano chandelier made by 41 acid-etched with an amber spot inside glasses, in a golden painted metal frame. This chandelier is a unique piece, glass created ...
Category
Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Art Glass
Vitis 5 Chandelier by RBW in Frosted Smoke Blown Glass and White Wire
By RBW
Located in Rhinebeck, NY
Vitis 5 / Chandelier
Designed by RBW
Designed so that no two installations are exactly alike, Vitis, is a draped modular statement chandelier with customizable possibilities. Its fl...
Category
2010s American Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Blown Glass
Mid-Century Opal Glass Ceiling Lamp by Stilnovo, Italy, 1960s
By Stilnovo
Located in Hagenbach, DE
This elegant Italian ceiling lamp by Stilnovo from the 1960s is a stunning example of mid-century modern design. The centerpiece is a beautifully crafted opaline glass shade, accente...
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal, Brass
Large Adjustable Pendant Lamp with Counterweight by Florian Schulz
Located in München, DE
Very beautiful brushed nickel pendant lamp from the 1960s.
The lighting effect of the lamp is extremely beautiful.
The design and the special lampshade create a very noble and pleasa...
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
'Onos 55' Brass Pendant Lamp by Florian Schulz, 1970s Germany
Located in Hagenbach, DE
Designed by Florian Schulz and crafted in Germany in the 1970s, this pendant light captivates with its elegant and functional design. Its sleek, minimalist aesthetic reflects the era...
Category
Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass