History of the First Chandeliers
Today we can fill our homes with beautiful historically-inspired luxury lights that create a mesmerizing atmosphere in an instant. But how about the older days? When were the first chandeliers ever built and used? The first developments started during the Renaissance when the primary candle holders became more intricate. Single candle flames offered minimal and deplorable lighting conditions; the people began to place the side of the candle by the side and create different patterns to obtain lighter.
They placed the candles into holders attached to the wall in sconces. Back in the day, they used this illumination technique to illuminate those long and dark corridors. The most affluent layer introduced the regular candles into wooden or metal frames beautifully decorated with patterns (typically Gothic motifs or heraldic shields). Therefore, today's amazing historically-inspired luxury lights began in the Renaissance period.
People hung these wooden or metal frames from the ceiling to obtain even better illumination. This way, they got better light and eliminated the risk of knocking over the candles (because they were hanging from the ceiling). Today, we associate chandeliers with luxury, but back in the day, these "contraptions" were quite simplistic…yet this basic idea gave birth to what we later know as a chandelier.
Palaces, clergy homes, and the wealthiest homes started to be decorated with more intricate chandeliers with ring and crown designs back in the 15th and 6th centuries. This is how the chandelier became a status symbol associated with luxury, well-being, and a higher status. People created more intricate designs, but the chandelier remained significantly associated with wealth. This is how lighting fixtures became more than just a practical item. They started paying more and more attention to detail, making these chandeliers a light source and a beautiful and imposing ornament. During the Renaissance period, humble candlelight became associated with beauty, not just practicality.
