Chandeliers became symbolic of art and fashion.
At the turn of the 20th century, the chandelier evolved from serving a primarily functional role in the home into a decorative statement of style. Individual manufacturers including Baccarat, Schonbek, Swarovski and Tiffany had begun to make a name for themselves as chandeliers elevated into a symbol of prosperity. Having become a member of the art and fashion world, chandeliers of the 1900s mirror social trends and art movements that occurred throughout the century. Does this Spark an idea?
European Design Influence
In the late 1800s, Americans became interested in high-style designs coming from Europe. More Americans began travelling to Europe, and young American architects and designers studied aboard. Chandelier styles trace the various "revivals" of style inspired by Old World Europe, including the classic symmetry and ornamentation of Neoclassical period lighting, Colonial Revival or "Williamsburg style" fixtures resembling earlier Georgian and federal styles, and Tudor Revival styles made of cast iron, wrought iron and crystal.
Art Impacts Lighting Styles
The beginning of the 20th century marked a global movement among designers to introduce new and original interpretations of art and style. Taking inspiration from nature and women, Art Nouveau was a rebellion against rigid academic schools. The main characteristics of the Art Deco movement were derived from various avant-garde painting styles of the early 20th century. Chandelier designs of the 1900s were influenced by both of these significant art movements.
A Return to Simple, Less Ornate Styling
The international Arts and Crafts movement represented a rebellion against mass production techniques, calling upon artists to make their pieces individually and by hand. The simplicity, squareness and symmetry of chandelier lighting of this period also influenced the American Craftsmen/Bungalow Period which came to represent the common builder's house.
Architectural Trends Continue to Provide Inspiration
No matter what style is desired, lighting plays an essential role. From the palatial homes of the Industrial Age in the early 1900s to mid-century Frank Lloyd Wright influence, the chandelier is often the essential first impression defining the interior design trends of the era. Look to the chandelier as one way to catalog various expressions of traditional and contemporary styles throughout each decade of the 1900s.
Tags: 20th century, rebellion against
