How do I light these wall sconces?

Many period examples are designed for candles, whilst later adaptations or specific mid-century pieces accommodate electric bulbs. Buyers should inspect the backplates and arm fittings to determine the original method of illumination. For candle sconces, standard taper or pricket candles fit the existing cups or spikes. Electric conversions require professional wiring to ensure safe installation against the wall.

What periods do these pieces date from?

The selection spans from the eighteenth century through to the mid-twentieth century. Nineteenth-century and earlier pieces often display hand-carved detailing associated with traditional Italian workshops. Pieces from the 1920s and 1930s form a large part of the available selection, reflecting a strong demand for revival styles during the interwar period.

How are girandoles different from wall lights?

Girandoles incorporate a mirror plate into the design of the wall light, serving to reflect the illumination of the attached candle arms. Standard wall lights provide the arm fixtures and decorative backplates without the central mirror. Both forms share similar carved wooden and gilded constructions, functioning as prominent decorative focal points on a room's wall.

Where should I place a hanging lantern?

Hanging lanterns suit entrance halls, stairwells, or high-ceilinged rooms where vertical space allows them to hang freely. Their enclosed glass and metal or wooden frames project light downwards and outwards. Careful placement ensures the lantern remains a central architectural feature while providing adequate clearance for movement beneath.