1920s Outside Light Fixtures

The decade of the1920s was a transitional period for lighting.

During the days of Prohibition and F. Scott Fitzgerald, lighting was undergoing a transition from the Victorian era into the modern industrial era. Both traditional lighting fixtures powered by gas and new electric lights coexisted during the period. Adding to this was the transition from artistic opulence towards a more natural simple design. Manufacturer's such as Tiffany and Stimple were competing with newcomers such as General Electric.

Gas and Electric

Outdoor lighting of the 1920s utilized natural gas flame or electricity, depending on individual taste. Electricity was a new option and yet to be proven as a reliable power source for lighting.

Transition

During the 1920s light fixtures were transitioning from gas powered to electricity. Many lights supported the use of both gas and electric power. Victorian era gas lighting was being phased out especially in exterior lighting fixtures. Electric wiring used in chandeliers, chain-hung lights and wall sconces had protective cloth covering.

Styles

Two distinct styles were used in this period - the Craftsman and Georgian Revival styles. The Craftsman style was also known as the Mission style. The Georgian style acquired the name Art Glass because of its decorative tones of color. Today you can find both styles still in use on older homes as well as in antique shops.

Craftsman fixtures took a naturalistic, straight and clean appearance. These light fixtures had angular features either square or rectangular in shape. This style later became the famous Prairie style used by architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

Georgian style fixtures were more ornate. Many larger fixtures hung from heavy chains with no shades; others had glass shading in opaque colors

Materials and Fixtures

Craftsman light fixtures taking a natural tone are usually constructed of oak, maple or other hardwoods. This complemented the housing styles of the East Coast such as American Foursquare and the Midwest Prairie style homes. Georgian lighting was often cast in metal, usually hammered iron or copper. The material and style often was suited to the design and style of the English Tudor homes or Queen Anne cottages.

Craftsman fixtures were often found on large wrap-around porches, and were a smaller aspect of the whole design. Georgian fixtures remained with smaller entrance ways, where they were the focal point.

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