Welcome to mallettantiques.com. Mallett’s are specialist international antique dealers in London and New York of high quality antique lighting, furniture and fine art. We can export our antiques, paintings and objet d’art, worldwide. This section of the website concentrates on antique lighting and has a wide selection of wall lights, chandeliers, lamps, lanterns and candelabra, suited to the modern taste for exceptional antiques. Please navigate the Lighting collection with the left hand menu or by selecting from the list below.

Before the invention of the electric light bulb in 1880, the sun and flame were the only available light sources for the home. Candles of tallow (which smelt unpleasant), beeswax (which was extraordinarily expensive) or petroleum based waxes (which were only developed in the 1850’s) were the most convenient form of lighting.

Due to the expense and luxury of lighting, candlesticks, candelabra, chandeliers and lanterns were all afforded the utmost attention to design and beauty, as important aesthetic elements of any grand room. The essential form and idea of the candlestick has not changed for centuries, and still today, we follow the same format. The styles and materials used have changed drastically, from early 18th century Chinese blue and white porcelain, to heavily gilt French Empire candlesticks of the 19th century. Contemporary fashions were as with furniture, influential on the decoration used. Neo-classical candlesticks were highly refined with elegant repetitive motifs used on relatively ‘clean’ materials such as white marble and ormolu. Gothic candlesticks of the early 19th century were architectural in form and decoration, the use of bronze afforded such candlesticks fine moulding and crisp ornamentation.

The variety of antique lighting objects available today can offer important and interesting elements to modern interiors. Whether used to add symmetry to fireplaces or cabinet furniture, or to add opulence and magnificence to a dining room or other important rooms. Cut glass chandeliers were certainly the most opulent form of ceiling lighting, reserved for grandest rooms. We have several by outstanding makers such as Perry & Co, Osler and Baccarat. Wall lights were again made of various materials, which changed with the fashions. From finely chased rococo ormolu wall lights to later Victorian cut glass examples. Sets of up to six wall lights are the exception and pairs are more common.

We also have an interesting collection of lamps, which have all been electrified for modern usage. These lamps incorporate antique elements such as Chinese and European porcelain vases, or original oil burning lamps. They are all mounted with handmade silk light shades specifically designed for each piece.

Should you require any further information or wish to purchase any of the pieces exhibited here then please do not hesitate to contact Mallett. We trust that you will enjoy your visit to Mallett, and we look forward to helping you source the finest antique furniture and decorative arts from the extensive Mallett collections. Please take time to visit the alternative sections.