Western Art, Western Decor

Light at the End of the Tunnel

Posted on May 24, 2010 by Buffalo Trader Online


Lighting is often an overlooked aspect of interior spaces. There are several categories of lighting, but the most desirable interior space will have representation from the following; natural, ambient, accent, task and decorative lighting. The manner in which these lighting levels co-exist creates ambiance in a room.

It is documented that the first lamp was around 70,000 B.C. and consisted of a primitive device such as a hollow rock filled with animal fat-soaked moss. Other documented lighting fuels were olive oil, beeswax, whale oil and nut oils. When ignited, this was a far superior lighting mechanism than that of a burning stick or pile of twigs and allowed for a more controlled burn. Wicks were later added as humans began imitating natural shapes with pottery, specifically the terra cotta lamps of the Greeks around 7th century B.C. In fact the word lamp is derived from the Greek word 'lampas' meaning 'torch.'

It wasn't until the late 1700's – early 1800's did the commercial use of gas and coal materialize. Two men to mention are the German inventor, Freidrich Winzer who first patented coal gas lighting in 1804 and American, David Melville who received the first U.S. gas light patent in 1810.

Fast forward to the 21st century and be excited that Buffalo Traders Online has done all the hard work for you! Creating ambient lighting in your favorite room is now at your fingertips! Some of our favorites are the Covered Wagon Table Lamp, and the Vintage Crystal Lake Canteen Lamp with Shade. Perhaps place these pieces of art in unexpected venues such as on your kitchen counter for some decorative lighting or on the desk in your home office for a brilliant task light! Not only do they make for a great conversation piece but are functional for years to come.

Posted in Lighting


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