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Whether you live in a historic home built in the 1800s or just want to add character to a more modern home, Victorian decor can add a touch of luxury to nearly any house. To complete the look, your lighting choices are crucial. Wall sconces have gone in and out of style over the years, but they were a common feature of Victorian decorating, making them a great choice for your home to emulate this classic look. Lamp Arts in Atlanta, GA, has a wide variety of decorative sconces to choose from as you create your Victorian dream house.

Understanding Victorian Lighting

The Victorian era began in 1837 and ended in 1901, so it is largely synonymous with the 1800s. At the beginning of Queen Victoria’s reign, candles and oil lamps were the order of the day, so early Victorian wall sconces typically consisted of a reflective surface behind a candleholder. In 1859, however, the Parliament building added gas lamps, and a new lighting craze began. Gas wall sconces became popular in homes across England and the United States as a result.

Choosing Victorian Sconces for Your Home

Knowing how the Victorians lit their homes is helpful in choosing the right sconces for your house. Try these tips to get the look just right:

  • sconcesUse Candle Sconces in Pre-1850 Homes: Older homes of the era or any that look more rustic or rural will look best with sconces designed to look like candle holders. Choose a flame-tip bulb for more authentic results.
  • Choose Up-Facing Sconces to Emulate Gas Lamps: Late Victorian, or “high” Victorian, decor calls for ornate wall sconces and vintage lighting with blown-glass shade to cover what would have been the gas flame but today is a light bulb. These should face upwards, as down-facing gas fixtures weren’t invented until 1897.
  • Use Sconces in Hallways & Foyers: For a posh Victorian look, consider lining a long hallway with sconces instead of using a more modern overhead light. This is a great look in an entryway, where ambient lighting will create a historic feel for your guests.

To learn more about Victorian lighting options, call Lamp Arts in Atlanta at (404) 352-5211, or visit their showroom to browse their wide range of sconces. You can also check out their website for more information. 

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