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.

Suspension Pendant Lighting

Suspension Lamp

Flos Smithfield

Sculptural Brass Chandelier

Alabastro Pendant

Suspension Vintage

Bloom Lamp

Modern Suspension Chandelier

Industrial Revolution

Sciolari Suspension Italy Lamp Pendant 7 Lights

$1,800

Sciolari Suspension Italy Lamp Pendant 7 Lights

By Sciolari Lighting

Located in Lège Cap Ferret, FR

Angelo Gaetano Sciolari (1927-1994) was the owner of Sciolari Lighting and designer for the Italian manufacturer Stilnovo in the 1950s. It was while working for Stilnovo that Sciolar...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

$7,775 / item

Cesare suspension lamp with brushed bronze frame and bronze glasses

Located in Vedelago, IT

A triumph of grandeur and prestige built to mirror the geometric shapes of the Colosseum. Tailored materials and craftsmanship make each piece a unique work of art. The lamps from co...

Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Modern Suspension by Massive, Belgium, 1960s

$905

Mid-Century Modern Suspension by Massive, Belgium, 1960s

By Massive Lighting

Located in Brussel, BE

Belgian suspension made of warm wood, brass, and opaline lampshade, designed by Massive in the 1960’s. - Designed by: Massive Origin: Belgium Design period: 1960’s Materials: wood, b...

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Folia Large Suspension Lamp: Polished Brass Lighting Inspired by Palm Tree

$3,784 / item

Folia Large Suspension Lamp: Polished Brass Lighting Inspired by Palm Tree

Located in Porto, PT

"""Introducing the Folia Suspension Lamp, a stunning embodiment of artistic inspiration and exceptional craftsmanship. This breathtaking suspension lamp draws its design from the tim...

Category

2010s Portuguese Organic Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Nest Form, Triple Glass Sculpted Unique Suspension Lighting by Jérôme Pereira

$27,926 / item

$223

Plexiglass Herda Suspension Pendant Lamp, 1970s

By Herda

Located in ROTTERDAM, ZH

Beige plexiglass Herda Pendant lamp. The height of the lamp can be adjusted with the rise-and-fall system. The lamp requires one E26/27 lightbulb. Additional information: Materials:...

Category

20th Century Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal

Velos Suspension Pendant Lamp by Alabastro Italiano

$12,900 / item

Velos Suspension Pendant Lamp by Alabastro Italiano

Located in Geneve, CH

Velos Suspension Pendant Lamp by Alabastro Italiano Dimensions: L 34 x W 22.5 x H 112cm Materials: Glass, Metal Other Metal finishes: Shiny Silver, Bronze, Brushed Brass, Ruggine of...

Category

2010s Italian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal

Stilnovo Height Adjustable UFO Suspension Pendant 'Sgned'

$3,300

$1,949

Elegant Double Suspension Pendant Light by Carl Fagerlund, 1960

By Orrefors, Carl Fagerlund

Located in PARIS, FR

Une élégante double suspension conçue par Carl Fagerlund pour le célèbre verrier suédois Orrefors dans les années 1960. Les spots en laiton de 28 cm (avec abat-jour) supportent des d...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Mid Century Ernst Igl Perforated Suspension Pendant Lamp

$575

Mid Century Ernst Igl Perforated Suspension Pendant Lamp

By Ernest Igl

Located in Hamden, CT

Ernst Igl suspension. Classic Igl perforated design. Verified original E-26 medium base socket, white plastic cord. Minor tarnish, dings, scuffs, bends and/or patination as largely s...

Category

Vintage 1960s Czech Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Enamel, Steel

$561

Italian Mid-Century Modern Plexs Glass Pendant/Suspension Fixture

By Mazzega

Located in Verviers, BE

Italian in the style of Mazzega Mid-Century Modern plexs glass pendant/suspension fixture. Size shade: Height 37 cm 14.56 inch diameter 48 cm 18.89 inch On an adjustable chain ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Chrome

Romantic Suspension

$1,926 / item

Romantic Suspension

Located in PARIS, FR

This suspension inspired by the romantic current brings a soft and pleasant light.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Flos Smithfield E26 Suspension Dimmable Pendant Light in Mud

$1,610

$5,446

Suspension pendant by Mario Botta for Artemide, Italy, c. 1980

By Mario Botta

Located in BARCELONA, ES

The composition is graphic yet restrained, creating a balance between structure, light, and negative space characteristic of Italian Post-Modern lighting of the 1980s. Designed by S...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal

Suspension lamp Casamania & Horm Aira Suspension design Marcantonio

$9,259 / item

Suspension lamp Casamania & Horm Aira Suspension design Marcantonio

By Horm

Located in Varedo, Lombardia

Brand: Casamania & Horm Model: Aira Suspension Lamp Design: Marcantonio Aira is a sculptural suspension lamp that transforms light into a poetic gesture. Composed of two elements of...

Category

2010s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

$3,440

Swedish Grace Alabaster Pendant Lamp with Knotted Cord Suspension, 1930s

Located in Eskilstuna, SE

An exceptionally elegant Swedish pendant lamp by an unknown designer and manufacturer, dating from the 1930s. The lamp features a generously proportioned bowl-shaped alabaster shade...

Category

Vintage 1930s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Alabaster

1950's Italian Suspension Pendant Tri Cylinder Colored Glass

$1,400Sale Price|51% Off

1950's Italian Suspension Pendant Tri Cylinder Colored Glass

By Stilnovo

Located in Hanover, MA

SATURDAY SALE 1950's Italian multi-colored glass cylinder pendants suspended from three white wire cords of staggered length from a single round flush mount ceiling canopy of black...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass, Aluminum

$10,916 / item

Yubiwa Suspension Pendant Lamp with Three Rings by Alabastro Italiano

Located in Geneve, CH

Yubiwa Suspension Pendant Lamp with Three Rings by Alabastro Italiano Dimensions: D 64 x H 91.5cm Materials: Alabaster, Metal Other Metal finishes: Shiny Silver, Bronze, Brushed Bra...

Category

2010s Italian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Alabaster, Metal

White Steinhauer Plexiglass Suspension Pendant Lamp with Wooden Elements, 1970s

$315

White Steinhauer Plexiglass Suspension Pendant Lamp with Wooden Elements, 1970s

Located in ROTTERDAM, ZH

Steinhauer pendant lamp with white plexiglass dome and wooden elements. The height of the light fixture can easily be adjusted with the suspension mechanism. The lamp requires one E2...

Category

20th Century Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal

Recent Sales

Unavailable

H 30 in W 29 in D 29 in

Cubic Suspension Pendant Chandelier

By Francesco Della Femina

Located in New York, NY

Striking architecturally designed chandelier composed of a number of brass finished square cubing elements entirely interlocked. The light fixture is in a versatile scale. The pendan...

Materials

Glass

Unavailable

H 51.19 in Dm 45.67 in

"Sputnik" Suspension

By Matlight Milano

Located in Milan, IT

"Sputnik" suspension in Alabaster with 36 sticks, of which 12 lights E14, metal finish in satin brass.

Category

2010s Italian International Style Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Multi-Light Suspension 73 Serie 11 Pendant Fixture Grey Glass

Unavailable

H 10 in W 8 in D 1.3 in

Multi-Light Suspension 73 Serie 11 Pendant Fixture Grey Glass

By Omer Arbel

Located in PARIS, FR

A multi pendant light suspension from 73 serie of Bocci. Discover the 73 serie collection of multi-light suspensions from Bocci and designer Omer Arbel. 73 results from blowing ...

Category

2010s Canadian Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Nickel

Multi-light suspension 73 Serie 8 pendant fixture clear glass

Unavailable

H 10 in W 8 in D 1.3 in

Multi-light suspension 73 Serie 8 pendant fixture clear glass

By Omer Arbel

Located in PARIS, FR

A multi pendant light suspension from 73 serie of BOCCI Discover the 73 Serie Collection of multi-light suspensions from BOCCI and designer Omer Arbel. 73 results from blowing l...

Category

2010s Canadian Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Mid-century Italian Pendant Light in Brass and Glass

$3,726

H 23.63 in Dm 43.31 in

Mid-century Italian Pendant Light in Brass and Glass

Located in Antwerp, BE

Mid-century Italian pendant lamp in brass with original opaline glass shades. Large Italian chandelier from the 1950s with eight arms, in white painted brass, with copper details an...

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Italian mid-century modern chandelier Tetraclio by Mazza for Artemide, 1960s

$4,816

H 27.56 in Dm 27.56 in

Italian mid-century modern chandelier Tetraclio by Mazza for Artemide, 1960s

By Sergio Mazza, Artemide

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian mid-century modern chandelier Tetraclio by Sergio Mazza for Artemide, 1960s Tetraclio chandelier with four spherical opaline glass diffusers and a nickel-plated brass frame. ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

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H 14 in Dm 11 in

Black Ceramic Table Lamp Oatmeal Linen Shade, Barro Bruñido

By L'Aviva Home

Located in New York, NY

This collection is shaped from clay sourced from the Sierra Madre mountains in Oaxaca. Local legend holds that the clay is blessed. Before firing, each piece is meticulously burnish...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Mexican Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Clay, Linen

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Suspension Pendant Lighting For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the piece of suspension pendant lighting you’re looking for. Frequently made of metal, glass and brass, every item from our selection of suspension pendant lighting was constructed with great care. If you’re shopping for a choice in our collection of suspension pendant lighting, we have 975 options in-stock, while there are 1644 modern editions to choose from as well. Your living room may not be complete without an object in our assortment of suspension pendant lighting — find older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. Each option in this array of suspension pendant lighting bearing modern, mid-century modern or Art Deco hallmarks is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one piece of suspension pendant lighting that is appealing in its simplicity, but Moooi, Artemide and Flos produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Suspension Pendant Lighting?

Prices for a piece of suspension pendant lighting can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $1 and can go as high as $533,607, while the average can fetch as much as $2,698.

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 Suspension Pendant Lighting

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.