What Is a swag pendant light?

A swag pendant light is a fixture that hangs from the ceiling and provides an often inexpensive light source while taking up very little space. Swag pendant lights take up little space — the fixture is typically a bare or shaded socket that is suspended from the ceiling by way of a robust metal chain or cord. A swag pendant also offers a variety of installation options and can enhance the overall look of the room. Shop a range of antique and vintage swag pendant lighting on 1stDibs.

What is a mini pendant light?

Mini pendant lights are scaled-down versions of pendant lights that dangle from an overhead support. Unique mini-pendant lights are a wonderful way to set the ambiance for an entire space because they dangle in mid-air. On 1stDibs, shop vintage and antique pendant lights.

What are the parts of a pendant light called?

Here are what the parts of a pendant light are called: The part that attaches to the ceiling is the mounting strap, and the canopy is the part that covers it. A chain usually connects the canopy to the rest of the light at a point called the hanging loop. At the end of the chain is the socket that holds the pendant light's bulb. On many pendants, a shade surrounds the bulb and diffuses light to soften the illumination produced by the fixtures. Shop a range of pendant lights on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a pendant light and a chandelier?

The difference between pendant lights and chandeliers is not complicated. In terms of both style and function, chandeliers are not that different from pendant lights. The difference between a chandelier and pendant light is not how they look but rather the way in which they hang. Chandeliers are suspended with multiple branches that hold many bulbs while pendants typically dangle from one central cord or chain. Chandeliers tend to be more intricate and fancier, so if you're looking for something luxurious, then this might work best. With pendants, you’re likely to find a variety of examples in minimalistic modern styles; these would make great additions to any office space because of their versatility like being able to turn them on/off with ease. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage pendant lights and chandeliers.

Can you put a pendant light above a kitchen sink?

Yes, you can put a pendant light above a kitchen sink. However, if you don’t already have a light receptacle in place, you may need to hire a professional electrician to run wiring to the area. Also, ensure that there is at least 30 to 36 inches of clearance below the light, so you can stand at the sink. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of pendant lights.

What's the difference between a chandelier and a pendant light?

Chandeliers have multiple arms or light sources branching from a central body, while pendants are typically a single fixture suspended from a cord, chain or rod.

Where should a pendant light hang over a kitchen sink?

Where you hang a pendant light over a kitchen sink is largely a matter of personal preference. If you're installing a new light fixture, consider where you most need task lighting. You may find it better to hang the lamp off to one side to illuminate a food prep area. Generally, there should be 35 to 40 inches of space between the bottom of the pendant and the countertop to allow for adequate clearance. On 1stDibs, find a collection of pendant lights.

Do glass pendant lights get dusty?

Yes, glass pendant lights get dusty. However, all lighting fixtures will eventually gather dust. Regularly wiping your pendant lights can reduce the presence of dust. Shop a variety of glass pendant lights on 1stDibs.

Paper Pendant Light

Mid Century Japanese Pendant

Light Sculpture Chandelier

Ingo Maurer Paper Chandelier

Japanese Landscape Artist

Japanese Modern Chandeliers

Paul Laszlo For Herman Miller

$1,370 / item

The Moona, Artisan Paper Light Sculpture by Jakob Uhlin for By Republiken

By By Republiken, Jakob Uhlin

Located in Grythyttan, SE

This stunning pendant lamp is a meticulously handcrafted creation, featuring a delicate silk paper exterior bonded to a structural core of recycled plastic.

Category

2010s Swedish Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Plastic, Paper

Pendant Light with Stitched Beige Parchment, Santa & Cole

$495 / item

Pendant Light with Stitched Beige Parchment, Santa & Cole

By Santa & Cole

Located in Moreno Valley, CA

Pendant lamp in the style of Gabriel Ordeig Cole for Santa and Cole The Lampshade is made of stitched beige parchment with visible seams. Originally designed for a famous haunt of ...

Category

Late 20th Century Spanish Organic Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Parchment Paper

$495 / item

$2,900

20th Century Art Nouveau Large Theatre Pendant Chandelier Light

Located in Surrey, BC

A great hanging g pendant with cast decorative elements, mica as well as.

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Nouveau Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal, Brass

Louis Sognot Pendant Light in Parchment, Rattan and Wicker, France, 1960s

$1,375

Louis Sognot Pendant Light in Parchment, Rattan and Wicker, France, 1960s

By Louis Sognot, Franco Albini and Franca Helg

Located in Roma, IT

Marvelous and unique Mid-Century organic pendant entirely hand-crafted in curved rattan and hand-woven wicker, completed by a parchment paper diffuser.

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Bamboo, Wicker, Cane, Rattan, Parchment Paper

$722

Mid-Century Rattan Pendant Light in the Style of Louis Sognot, France, 1960s

By Louis Sognot

Located in Camblanes et Meynac, FR

It has a paper shade inside to diffuse a soft, warm light.

Category

Mid-20th Century Spanish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Materials

Plaster, Paper

Sold

H 23.5 in Dm 14.25 in

French Designer, Pendant Light, Rattan, Paper, France, 1970s

Located in High Point, NC

A rattan and paper pendant light designed and produced in France, c. 1970s.

Category

Vintage 1970s French Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Rattan, Paper

Small 'Cigar' Pendant Light by George Nelson

Sold

Sold

Sold

H 18 in Dm 18 in

Early Vintage Isamu Noguchi Akari Light Sculpture 45D Paper Hanging Pendant Lamp

By Isamu Noguchi, Ozeki & Co. Ltd. 1

Located in Troy, MI

Early and rare unused model 45D Akari light sculpture by Isamu Noguchi Manufactured in Gifu Japan by Ozeki circa 1950s Handmade shade of washi paper over bamboo ribbing with sun an...

Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal

Italian Rattan Pendant Light

Sold

H 32 in Dm 15 in

Italian Rattan Pendant Light

By Bonacina

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Beautiful large rattan pendant light from Italy, 1960's. Original rattan frame with nice patina and age.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Ingo Maurer Uchiwa Fan Pendant Light

Sold

H 21 in Dm 22 in

Ingo Maurer Uchiwa Fan Pendant Light

Located in New York, NY

Hanging light, part of a series of similar works incorporating
uchiwa paper and bamboo fans.

Category

20th Century German Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Paper

Light Fixture and Paper Lantern by Andrew Stansell

Sold

H 21 in W 21 in D 21 in

Light Fixture and Paper Lantern by Andrew Stansell

By Andrew Stansell

Located in Wainscott, NY

Intersect - a Japanese paper and steel armature structural light fixture, lantern. Can be used as a table top, lighted piece or pendent

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Chandeliers and Pendants

Pendant Light, Togo Murano, for Yamagiwa, Japan, 1980s

Sold

H 7.49 in W 11.42 in D 11.23 in

Pendant Light, Togo Murano, for Yamagiwa, Japan, 1980s

Located in Tokyo, Tokyo

Designed by renowned Japanese architect Togo Murano for Yamagiwa, this elegant pendant light embodies the quiet sophistication of Japanese modern design. Its distinctive asymmetrica...

Category

Late 20th Century Japanese Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Paper

Mini Bubble Pendant Light by George Nelson

Sold

H 11.82 in W 13 in D 13 in

Mini Bubble Pendant Light by George Nelson

By George Nelson

Located in London, GB

A paper spherical pendant light with brushed nickel ceiling plate, gallery and original flex.

Category

Late 20th Century British Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Nickel

Sold

H 18 in Dm 20 in

Swedish Designer, Pendant Light, Metal, Fabric, Glass, Parchment, Sweden, 1930s

Located in High Point, NC

A gold-painted metal, embroidery and string fabric, brown parchment paper and glass pendant light designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1930s.

Category

Vintage 1930s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Fabric, Glass, Parchment Paper

André Butzer, Limited Edition Book and Signed, Hand-Painted ‘Pendant Light’

Sold

Sold

Gerald Thurston - Lightolier Hanging Light

Located in Los Angeles, CA

multi-material hanging fixture for Lightolier..slitted brass and perforated metal upper diffuser, parchment 'skin', accordian pleated diffuser (plastic), on/off finial at center of p...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal, Brass

$1,485

H 9.5 in Dm 8 in

Modern One-of-a-kind Handmade Japanese Washi Paper LED Pendant Lamp, Croissant

By SATSUMA WASHI STUDIO

Located in New York, NY

Satsuma Washi Studio produces handmade “Washi”, a Japanese traditional craft paper with a history of about 1400 years. This organic material comes from the bark of the branches of th...

Category

2010s Japanese Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Paper

Kawa Pendant Light from Souda, Porcelain Hanging Lamp, In Stock

$1,000Sale Price|20% Off

H 9 in Dm 6.75 in

Kawa Pendant Light from Souda, Porcelain Hanging Lamp, In Stock

By Luft Tanaka, Souda

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Souda's Kawa Pendant Lights are slip cast porcelain directly into dozens of leather molds resulting in highly-unique ceramic shades. The finalized pendant lights are dynamic and high...

Category

2010s American Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Ceramic, Clay, Porcelain, Pottery

$550 / item

H 6.23 in Dm 13.39 in

Contemporary Pendant Lamp 'Alley' by AGO 'Large-White'

By AGO Lighting

Located in Paris, IDF

Alley pendant lamp by AGO Lighting UL Listed Painted aluminum, white opal glass LED G9 110-240V (not included) Available colors: Charcoal, white, grey, burgundy, green Dimensions:...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Organic Modern Chandeliers and Pend...

Materials

Aluminum

Swedish Designer, Pendant Light, Brass, Glass, Sweden, 1950s

$2,600

H 25.5 in W 12 in D 8.5 in

Swedish Designer, Pendant Light, Brass, Glass, Sweden, 1950s

Located in High Point, NC

A brass and yellow etched pendant light designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1950s. Dramatic patina on brass. Wear consistent with age and use. Overall Dimensions (inches): 25.5"H ...

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Rattan and Wicker Wire Italian Modernist Conic Pendant / Hanging Light, 1960s

$1,788Sale Price|20% Off

H 38.59 in Dm 13 in

Rattan and Wicker Wire Italian Modernist Conic Pendant / Hanging Light, 1960s

Located in Barcelona, ES

Mid-Century Modern woven wicker wire and rattan conical shaped lantern or pendant ceiling lamp. Italy, 1960s. The woven wicker shade of this lamp is accented by vertical rattan stic...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Wire

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LU Louis Sconce AS

$1,550 / item

H 10 in W 7 in D 7.875 in

LU Louis Sconce AS

By Lumfardo Luminaires

Located in Inglewood, CA

Handsome LU Louis sconce AS. An all brass wall sconce in an aged silver finish with patterned perforations by Lumfardo Luminaires. Made contemporary in the US. Multiples available fo...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Scandinavian Modern Wall Lights a...

Materials

Brass, Nickel

Pair of Park Night Stands in Noir Oxblood Lacquer by Yaniv Chen for Lemon

$6,510 / set

H 24.01 in W 18.12 in D 14.18 in

Pair of Park Night Stands in Noir Oxblood Lacquer by Yaniv Chen for Lemon

By Lemon

Located in Amsterdam, NL

The Park nightstand is the epitome of exquisite craftsmanship, featuring meticulously proportioned dimensions and exceptional detailing that make it an ideal bedside companion. Our f...

Category

2010s South African Minimalist Pedestals

Materials

Lacquer

$1,800 / item

$4,500 / item

$4,500

H 56.25 in W 26 in D 26 in

Corona Belysning, Floor Lamp, Brass, Fabric, Sweden, 1940s

By Corona

Located in High Point, NC

An adjustable brass and fabric floor lamp designed and produced by Corona Belysning, Sweden, c. 1940s. Dimensions of Lamp (inches): 56.25” H x 16.25” W x 16.25” D Dimensions of Lam...

Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Hans Bergström for Ateljé Lyktan 5-arm Chandelier in Brass, Sweden 1940s

$19,000

H 15.75 in Dm 25.2 in

Hans Bergström for Ateljé Lyktan 5-arm Chandelier in Brass, Sweden 1940s

By Hans Bergström, Ateljé Lyktan

Located in Prague, New Town

A rare 5-arm brass chandelier, model ’80’, designed by Swedish architect and lighting designer Hans Bergström (1910-1996). Manufactured by Ateljé Lyktan in the 1940s. Made of brass a...

Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Get Updated with New Arrivals

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Paper Pendant Light For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the paper pendant light you’re looking for at 1stDibs. A paper pendant light — often made from paper, metal and bamboo — can elevate any home. Find 44 options for an antique or vintage paper pendant light now, or shop our selection of 6 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect paper pendant light — we have versions that date back to the 20th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. A paper pendant light made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Modern — is very popular. Many designers have produced at least one well-made paper pendant light over the years, but those crafted by Isamu Noguchi, Akari and George Nelson are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Paper Pendant Light?

A paper pendant light can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $2,272, while the lowest priced sells for $170 and the highest can go for as much as $21,000.

Finding the Right Chandeliers-pendant-lights for You

Chandeliers — simple in form, inspired by candelabras and originally made of wood or iron — first made an appearance in early churches. For those wealthy enough to afford them for their homes in the medieval period, a chandelier's suspended lights likely exuded imminent danger, as lit candles served as the light source for fixtures of the era. Things have thankfully changed since then, and antique chandeliers and pendant lights are popular in many interiors today.

While gas lighting during the late 18th century represented an upgrade for chandeliers — and gas lamps would long inspire Danish architect and pioneering modernist lighting designer Poul Henningsen — it would eventually be replaced with the familiar electric lighting of today.

The key difference between a pendant light and a chandelier is that a pendant incorporates only a single bulb into its design. Don’t mistake this for simplicity, however. An Art Deco–styled homage to Sputnik from Murano glass artisans Giovanni Dalla Fina, with handcrafted decorative elements supported by a chrome frame, is just one stunning example of the elaborate engineering that can be incorporated into every component of a chandelier. (Note: there is more than one lighting fixture that shares its name with the iconic mid-century-era satellite — see Gino Sarfatti’s design too.)

Chandeliers have evolved over time, but their classic elegance has remained unchanged.

Not only will the right chandelier prove impressive in a given room, but it can also offer a certain sense of practicality. These fixtures can easily illuminate an entire space, while their elevated position prevents them from creating glare or straining one’s eyes.

Certain materials, like glass, can complement naturally lit settings without stealing the show. Brass, on the other hand, can introduce an alluring, warm glow. While LEDs have earned a bad reputation for their perceived harsh bluish lights and a loss of brightness over their life span, the right design choices can help harness their lighting potential and create the perfect mood. A careful approach to lighting can transform your room into a peaceful and cozy nook, ideal for napping, reading or working.

For midsize spaces, a wall light or sconce can pull the room together and get the lighting job done. Perforated steel rings underneath five bands of handspun aluminum support a rich diffusion of light within Alvar Aalto's Beehive pendant light, but if you’re looking to brighten a more modest room, perhaps a minimalist solution is what you’re after. The mid-century modern furniture designer Charlotte Perriand devised her CP-1 wall lamps in the 1960s, in which a repositioning of sheet-metal plates can redirect light as needed.

The versatility and variability of these lighting staples mean that, when it comes to finding something like the perfect chandelier, you’ll never be left hanging. From the natural world-inspired designs of the Art Nouveau era to the classic beauty of Paul Ferrante's fixtures, there is a style for every room.

With designs for pendant lights and chandeliers across eras, colors and materials, you’ll never run out of options to explore on 1stDibs — shop a collection today that includes antique Art Deco chandeliers, Stilnovo chandeliers, Baccarat chandeliers and more.

Questions About Paper Pendant Light

What Is a swag pendant light?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
A swag pendant light is a fixture that hangs from the ceiling and provides an often inexpensive light source while taking up very little space. Swag pendant lights take up little space — the fixture is typically a bare or shaded socket that is suspended from the ceiling by way of a robust metal chain or cord. A swag pendant also offers a variety of installation options and can enhance the overall look of the room. Shop a range of antique and vintage swag pendant lighting on 1stDibs.
What is a mini pendant light?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
Mini pendant lights are scaled-down versions of pendant lights that dangle from an overhead support. Unique mini-pendant lights are a wonderful way to set the ambiance for an entire space because they dangle in mid-air. On 1stDibs, shop vintage and antique pendant lights.
What are the parts of a pendant light called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
Here are what the parts of a pendant light are called: The part that attaches to the ceiling is the mounting strap, and the canopy is the part that covers it. A chain usually connects the canopy to the rest of the light at a point called the hanging loop. At the end of the chain is the socket that holds the pendant light's bulb. On many pendants, a shade surrounds the bulb and diffuses light to soften the illumination produced by the fixtures. Shop a range of pendant lights on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a pendant light and a chandelier?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
The difference between pendant lights and chandeliers is not complicated. In terms of both style and function, chandeliers are not that different from pendant lights. The difference between a chandelier and pendant light is not how they look but rather the way in which they hang. Chandeliers are suspended with multiple branches that hold many bulbs while pendants typically dangle from one central cord or chain. Chandeliers tend to be more intricate and fancier, so if you're looking for something luxurious, then this might work best. With pendants, you’re likely to find a variety of examples in minimalistic modern styles; these would make great additions to any office space because of their versatility like being able to turn them on/off with ease. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage pendant lights and chandeliers.
Can you put a pendant light above a kitchen sink?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
Yes, you can put a pendant light above a kitchen sink. However, if you don’t already have a light receptacle in place, you may need to hire a professional electrician to run wiring to the area. Also, ensure that there is at least 30 to 36 inches of clearance below the light, so you can stand at the sink. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of pendant lights.
What's the difference between a chandelier and a pendant light?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
Chandeliers have multiple arms or light sources branching from a central body, while pendants are typically a single fixture suspended from a cord, chain or rod.
Where should a pendant light hang over a kitchen sink?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
Where you hang a pendant light over a kitchen sink is largely a matter of personal preference. If you're installing a new light fixture, consider where you most need task lighting. You may find it better to hang the lamp off to one side to illuminate a food prep area. Generally, there should be 35 to 40 inches of space between the bottom of the pendant and the countertop to allow for adequate clearance. On 1stDibs, find a collection of pendant lights.
Do glass pendant lights get dusty?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
Yes, glass pendant lights get dusty. However, all lighting fixtures will eventually gather dust. Regularly wiping your pendant lights can reduce the presence of dust. Shop a variety of glass pendant lights on 1stDibs.