Florentine Lantern
Antique Early 1900s Italian Baroque Lanterns
Giltwood
20th Century Italian Lanterns
Crystal, Iron
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Floor Lamps
Paper
Recent Sales
20th Century Italian Lanterns
Metal
Antique 19th Century Italian Lanterns
Antique 17th Century Italian Lanterns
Wood
Late 20th Century Italian Empire Lanterns
Bronze, Iron
Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Crystal, Brass
Late 20th Century Italian Lanterns
Crystal, Iron
Mid-20th Century Italian Lanterns
Wrought Iron
Mid-20th Century Italian Baroque Lanterns
Metal
Early 20th Century Italian Lanterns
Ormolu, Brass
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2010s Spanish Organic Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Iron
Vintage 1960s Italian Empire Lanterns
Brass
2010s Italian Other Chandeliers and Pendants
Blown Glass, Murano Glass
2010s Italian Modern Wall Mirrors
Murano Glass
Vintage 1940s Italian Lanterns
Brass
Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Iron
Vintage 1960s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Brass
Antique Mid-19th Century Danish Brutalist Desks and Writing Tables
Oak
21st Century and Contemporary American Lanterns
Copper
Antique Late 17th Century German Baroque Armchairs
Tapestry, Walnut
Early 20th Century French Art Nouveau Lanterns
Brass, Bronze
Antique Mid-19th Century French Floor Lamps
Bronze
Early 20th Century German Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants
Metal
Antique 1890s French Neoclassical Cabinets
Carrara Marble, Brass
20th Century English Country Farm Tables
Fruitwood, Oak
Antique Late 19th Century German Victorian Coat Racks and Stands
Iron
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.
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