Chandeliers have been around since before the 16th century. However, in terms of interior design they were mainly decorative rather than functional. In fact, they were not practical at all. Chandeliers served the purpose of showing wealth for the upper class, and were mainly in palaces. Since they were only able to illuminate a room through candle light they were extremely difficult to keep up with. Kings had servants that would constantly be around during dinner or other events and would keep the candles lit. These chandeliers were also relatively dangerous.
Some of the most noted chandeliers in the history of interiors are located at the Brighton Palace which was King George’s palace that was built in 1787. One person noted that “Some of the chandeliers are almost beyond belief.” King George had several rooms that featured beautiful chandeliers; one of them being the music room which featured nine lotus chandeliers. His more known chandelier was the one in the dining room which was a six foot chandelier that weighed a ton. It had a silver gilt dragon that that was holding the chandelier with metal palm fronds that was said to quiver as guests walked through the room. It was said that women often would refuse to sit underneath the chandelier for fear it would fall and kill them!
Here at LKRE, we’ve come to love these stunning lighting fixtures. From classic to exotic, here are some that really light up our lives!
