Victorian Lighting (Gas Lighting, Oil Lighting)  1850 - 1895

The Victorian era comprises many different aesthetic styles which include, Gothic Revival, Italianate, Second Empire, Queen Anne, Eastlake and Richarsonian Romanesque. With each style being different, common elements include an emphasis on substance and form, ornate allegorical and figural details, an emphasis on vertical scale and asymmetric layouts. In cities and larger towns, gas lighting was frequently used in households well into the 20th century. 

Victorian aesthetics are very diverse but the lighting styles always carry the same form. Fine quality metal work with decorative gas shades pointing up is present in almost all Victorian lighting. Traditionally hallways often featured gas hoops or j-arms while parlours and dining areas displayed more prominent and decorative gasoliers. Wall sconces were used frequently in interiors and often complimented or matched the central ceiling fixture.