Charles Edwards Lantern
Late 20th Century American Lanterns
Metal
Late 20th Century British Neoclassical Lanterns
Nickel
20th Century English Chandeliers and Pendants
Metal, Gold Plate
Recent Sales
2010s English Lanterns
Bronze
Late 20th Century British British Colonial Lanterns
Bronze
2010s Lanterns
Metal
Late 20th Century British Regency Lanterns
Bronze
Antique Early 19th Century English Wall Lights and Sconces
Metal
21st Century and Contemporary English Lanterns
21st Century and Contemporary Lanterns
21st Century and Contemporary English Other Lanterns
21st Century and Contemporary Lanterns
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21st Century and Contemporary American Bohemian Chandeliers and Pendants
Brass
21st Century and Contemporary Mexican Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Textile, Wood, Linen, Fiberglass
2010s Italian Renaissance Wall Mirrors
Glass
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Industrial Wall Lights and Sconces
Iron
21st Century and Contemporary English Regency Lanterns
Brass
21st Century and Contemporary English Art Deco Lanterns
Brass
2010s Austrian Jugendstil Chandeliers and Pendants
Silk
2010s Chandeliers and Pendants
Metal
2010s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs
Oak
20th Century Regency Lanterns
Brass
20th Century Regency Chandeliers and Pendants
Bronze
Vintage 1970s Dining Room Chairs
Wood
21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Plaster
21st Century and Contemporary Asian French Provincial Console Tables
Wood
21st Century and Contemporary European French Provincial Lanterns
Copper
Early 2000s Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Brass
Finding the Right Lanterns for You
Whether you’re in search of a functional fixture to help illuminate a room or just a minimalist ornamental touch, the choice of lighting is important. Selecting the perfect vintage, new or antique lanterns can transform an otherwise monotonous space in your home.
In the 1700s, lanterns became widely popular when accessibility broadened for whale oil, as fuel for lamps was one of its earliest uses. Lantern design evolved considerably during the mid- to late 19th century, when a powerful, adaptable fuel came into play: kerosene. Portable and immediately sought after, kerosene lamps were traditionally surrounded by a glass globe or tube that sat on a metal frame to protect the flame from spreading or extinguishing. (While reproductions abound, antique kerosene lanterns have since become collector's items.)
Later, in 1862, John H. Irwin created coil oil lamps, which were designed for coal oils as well as kerosene and lessened the risk of fire. They required plentiful oxygen to remain lit, and with refinements, the lamps could be used indoors. Lanterns increasingly came to be part of commercial spaces such as museums and theaters, and over time, lighting artisans worked to refine and perfect these innovative fixtures so that they weren’t only practical but also elegant, sophisticated additions to home decor.
Antiques inject a touch of classical chic into any space. With the right lantern, you could also deepen the impact of the collection of vases and vessels, sculptures or other decorative objects in a living room or dining room. It’s essential to find a balance between utility and aesthetics when choosing the perfect vintage–style lantern for your space, and the right lighting decisions can determine the underlying mood of a room as well as enhance the choices you’ve made for your home’s decor. While old-time charm is something to be cherished, there is lots to love in modern lanterns from today’s top furniture designers.
On 1stDibs, search by creator to find lanterns crafted by the likes of Woka Lamps, Barovier & Toso and Material Lust or browse the collection by style. From today’s standouts to mid-century modern classics to Art Deco–era innovations, find the best vintage, new or antique lantern for you now.