Renaissance Style Lighting

Candelabras were popular during the Renaissance.

Lighting during the Renaissance, which lasted from the 13th to 17th centuries, relied on candles. Electricity was not yet discovered, so light sources were primitive. Some fixtures relied on Castor oil, but most simply used candles. The light fixtures were often detailed and ornate, resembling pieces of art more than basic candle holders. The Renaissance was characterized by artistic movements and a focus on beauty, and light fixtures were no exception, particularly for the wealthy.

Candles

Candles were the heart of all light fixtures throughout the Renaissance period. Light fixtures did not yet use electricity, so even the most elaborate chandeliers were lit with candles. Different types of fixtures were created to hold candlesticks. Some were basic while others were decorative.

Materials

Light fixtures during the Renaissance era were shiny and metallic. Most fixtures were made with brass, copper, bronze or silver, which were polished to create a high shine. Cast iron and wrought iron were also used. Some simple fixtures were made of glass, and glass was sometimes used as a decorative cover on oil lamps. Some expensive fixtures were gilded, meaning they featured a fine gold leaf or powder layer over the metal. Gilt-silver and gilt-bronze gave the fixtures attractive, shiny exteriors.

Motifs

Human and animal motifs were frequently seen on Renaissance light fixtures, particularly handheld candle holders that displayed human figures, ranging from a woman holding a tree branch to an armored man. Animal figures, such as a bird or horse, were also popular. Sometimes human and animal figures were combined on the same fixture, such as a man or woman riding on a lion's back.

Candlesticks

Candlesticks were used to carry lights from room to room. They featured a flat wax pan, baluster socket and circular thumb piece. Candlesticks held a single candle. Scrolled handles with conical extinguishers became popular during the latter part of the Renaissance period.

Candelabras

Candelabras were also known as branch candlesticks. They consisted of branches with cylindrical bezels, which fit into the socket of a supporting stick. The branches could be removed, allowing the candlestick to be used alone.

Wall-Mounted Lighting

Some fixtures mounted onto walls and were used to light stairwells and rooms. They consisted of a backplate that attached to the wall and a holder for a candlestick. The holder contained a small plate to catch melted wax drippings. Some models were quite basic and built merely to hold a candle, while others were ornate and not only held the candle, but acted as a piece of d cor.

Standing Lights

Oil lamps were often set on tables. Some were attached to tall poles, creating floor lamps. The oil lamps consisted of a vessel holding oil--such as Castor oil--and a wick. The vessel was either simple, such as a basic bowl shape, or elaborate, such as a painted Aladdin's lamp. They were made from glass, metal, ceramic or stone, with more elaborate vessels being artistically painted.

Chandeliers

Chandeliers ranged from primitive to extravagant. They contained three or more curving arms that held candlesticks. The candlestick holders included small bowls to catch the dripping wax. Basic chandeliers did not consist of decorative accents. Extravagant chandeliers featured decorative beads or teardrop pendants as accessories.

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