Georgian and Georgian Revival Lighting

Georgian 1720 - 1780 | Georgian Revival 1900 - 1940

The Georgian era was named after King George I of the British throne. Although it originated in Great Britain, Georgian architecture and interior design was and still is prominent in North America. Houses were either row or freehold and featured expansive interiors combining symmetry and decorative embellishments like wainscoting, acanthus leaves, egg and dart motifs and scroll and tassel details. Georgian Revival evolved into a paired down extension of Georgian designs complete with modern conveniences such as electric light.

Georgian lighting fixtures were strong, symmetrical fixtures featuring decorative details such as wreaths, scrolls, shields, urns and acanthus leaves. The majority of lighting was made of brass or silver which featured either high polished or burnished brass finishes. Authentic Georgian ceiling lighting and wall sconces were always open candles or enclosed in hurricane shades. The same goes for Georgian revival lighting with electric candle style light being used in replacement of wax.