Lanterns
Early 20th Century English Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Copper
Early 20th Century European Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Brass
20th Century Spanish Empire Lanterns
Bronze
19th Century Swedish Empire Antique Lanterns
Iron
Late 19th Century English Arts and Crafts Antique Lanterns
Iron
19th Century American Arts and Crafts Antique Lanterns
Brass
Early 20th Century European Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Brass, Copper
20th Century English Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Silver Plate, Copper
Early 1900s English Arts and Crafts Antique Lanterns
Brass
Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Bronze
20th Century English Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Copper
Late 19th Century Arts and Crafts Antique Lanterns
Copper
1930s American Arts and Crafts Vintage Lanterns
Early 20th Century British Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Bronze
20th Century English Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Iron
19th Century American Empire Antique Lanterns
Brass
19th Century French Empire Antique Lanterns
Bronze
20th Century English Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Iron
18th Century and Earlier Unknown Arts and Crafts Antique Lanterns
Copper
1910s American Arts and Crafts Vintage Lanterns
Metal
Early 20th Century Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Brass
1990s American Arts and Crafts Lanterns
Brass
Early 20th Century French Empire Lanterns
Bronze
1920s North American Arts and Crafts Vintage Lanterns
Copper
1810s European Empire Antique Lanterns
Crystal, Bronze
Vintage, New and Antique Lanterns
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.