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History Of Lighting

History of Arts and Crafts Lighting & Design

The Arts and Crafts Movement began around 1870 in Great Britain as a response to the Industrial Revolution and the rigid class structure of Victorian society, which placed high value on the elite while exploiting the working class. As factory-made goods began replacing handmade craftsmanship, product quality declined, and unfair labor practices became widespread. With no unions or labor protections, workers had little recourse.

The Arts and Crafts Movement aimed to restore respect for the integrity and quality of handcrafted goods, elevating both the value of the craftsman’s work and its social significance. By creating furniture, lighting, textiles, and other items by hand rather than through mass production, artisans believed they were producing superior products and fostering a meaningful connection between maker, material, and society. Ultimately, the movement was as much about social reform as it was about aesthetics, advocating for a fairer society that honored individual artisans. For more detailed information on the Arts and Crafts Movement, please explore our resources. visit Encyclopedia Britannica

 

History of Mission Lighting

Mission Lighting was a key design element of the Mission Style movement, popular from 1900 through the 1930s. Homes built during this era showcased meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to quality materials, strength, and integrity. Hallmarks of Mission Style design include hardwood floors, exposed beams, built-in cabinets, stained glass windows, hardwood trim, solid wood doors, curved archways, tray ceilings, plaster walls, and more. Materials were held to high standards, often featuring stained glass fixtures, brass hardware, and woods like oak, cherry, ash, elm, and mahogany.

Recently, a revival of Mission Style homes and décor has taken hold as homeowners seeking timeless design turn to this classic style. Across the U.S., many older Mission homes are being restored, though original decor and antiques are often scarce. This has led to a burgeoning industry in quality reproductions, including Mission Lighting, tiles, pottery, wallpaper, fabrics, glassware, hardware, and more.

The terms Arts & Crafts Style, Craftsman Style, and Mission Style are often used interchangeably, as they generally refer to homes and decor from 1900 to the 1930s in America. However, Arts & Crafts was the original movement, beginning in Great Britain around 1870.