Since the early part of the 20th century lighting designers have
created lamps and fixtures to captivate our senses. Much like
the tranquility one feels staring at a warming fire or the
excitement one feels staring at the spectacle of a lightning
storm, accent lamps - those with colorful stained glass
patterns, mythical figures, pastoral scenes or action, evoke our
emotions.
While illumination is a function of lighting, many of the lamps
of the sensory ilk, including lava lamps of the 50's and 60's,
and animated action lamps of the 20's and again in the 1950's,
favor more the sense of accent, entertainment and decoration
than the practical function of task lighting.
Static yet colorful stained glass lighting appeals as eye candy.
Beautiful patterns of Wisteria, Iris, and nature captivate,
whether lit or not. Not much has changed since pioneer Louis
Comfort Tiffany introduced his first stained glass art lamps
more than 100 years ago. Vintage original Tiffany fixtures can
be bought for more than the cost of a down payment for a San
Francisco home. (see:
http://www.chandeliers-and-home-lighting.com/tiffany-chandelier.h
tm )
Motion lamps, like the animated lamps of the 1920's, feature
popular scenes such as water cascading over Niagra Falls or
flames burning around a log. It's no wonder why advertisers
sought to reintroduce action lamps again in the 1950's. In the
50's these moving lamps were brought back to life featuring Cole
Swimwear models or popular snacks and drinks such as popcorn or
coke and would rest upon the counter of a bar for all to enjoy!
Lava lamps also captured our fascination with colorful lighting
and movement. Today, these, and the above mentioned vintage
lamps, continue to be popular. Collectors may seek higher valued
originals, whereas the homeowner may be just as happy with a
modern day reproduction. Adding to the feel of a place, these
kinds of fixtures are here to stay!
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