Tiffany Pendant Lights and Hanging Lamps



The most significant features of Tiffany stained glass lighting fixtures are the shades. Toward the end of the 19th century, Louis Comfort Tiffany patented his famous Copper Foil Production Method used for creating elegant shades made from hand rolled stained art glass. Using the highest quality glass and creating timeless designs like the Hanging head Dragonfly, Peacock, Koi, and other nature themed designs, Tiffany and his stunning creations were gracing homes with vivid color and sheer elegance and style all around the world.



The Copper Foil method that is used to create classic hanging Tiffany lamps and other lighting fixtures is basically what joins the individual pieces of art glass together to created the intricate design of the shade. Once the pieces of art glass are hand cut and the edges smoothed, copper foil is attached to the edges of the art glass. Then, the pieces are soldered together and the pattern for the shade is created. Afterwards, the solder is covered with a chemical that helps create a patina finish and a classic, refined look.



Tiffany pendant lighting can be found in two basic varieties: Uplights (inverted) or downlights. Inverted Tiffany hanging lamps are designed so that the light is bounced off of the ceiling and then reflected back down into the room. In other words, the upward Tiffany pendants are inverted so that their bulbs and shades both face the ceiling. When the light is directed towards the ceiling, it is diffracted better so that all aspects of the room receive better ambient lighting. For Tiffany pendant lighting fixtures designed in the down light style, the bulbs and the lampshades are facing downward and directly illuminate objects below. Things will be better illuminated beneath the fixture but the corners of the room may appear darker because light is not first bounced off the ceiling.



Tiffany pendant lights will fill a space with vibrant color and beauty and they also help flatter the surroundings with a soothing ambiance. When the light passes through the stained glass shade, it softly diffuses the illumination. Not only does this diffusion reduce the chance for glare, it creates a calming environment that is warm and inviting.



Tiffany island lights are great for illuminating pool tables and other work spaces because they direct lighting downward for optimum efficiency. However, no area can be properly illuminated with a single light fixture so it is important to complement any Tiffany hanging lamp with other Tiffany lighting fixtures to both unify the space and bring balance. Lighting fixtures also need to complement one another in design, color scheme, and materials while still accentuating the surrounding decor. Deciding which Tiffany pendant lighting fixture is best for your home will depend on your particular ambient lighting needs, the size of your space, and the other furnishings in the decor.