Posted 10 years ago
IMASapp
(57 items)
In another thread I was asked about lighting fairy lamps. And, just a reminder....never light an antique fairy lamp with a modern candle. Modern candles are too hot and will quickly wipe out your investment if the shade cracks.
The lighted cabinet display photo was taken many years ago and my collection has matured somewhat since that time. However, you can easily see why fairy lamps were so popular in the Victorian era. They were produced by the 100s of thousands in seeming infinity varieties of styles, glass types, and colors. Most were broken and discarded and most of those remaining are in the hands of collectors. They are increasingly difficult to find, especially complete and in good condition.
I use the GO LED battery lights because they are small, about 1.5" in diameter, they produce a bright "white light", and they are inexpensive - about $1 each in quantities. The down side is that the battery is not replaceable and the light will get dimmer over time.
Jim.
Beautiful display and great info for new collectors on the harm of using a real candle!
scott
They look so beautiful all lit....thank you
Swoon! Glorious.
Oh! Jim....magnificent!!!!.... :-)
Early candles were tallow, made from animal fat. Clarke only made candles called "Fairy Lights". He commissioned numerous glass house to make "Fairy Lamps" so he could promote his candles. Kinda like ink for printers today.
As you might imagine, the rendering plants that made tallow candles was a nasty but needed industry.
idcloisonne,
I put some information about Clarke's candles at:
http://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/129880-clarkes-fairy-lamp-candles
Yes, they have a distinctive smell. And, even after a 100 years, they give off fumes that will quicly coat your glass with a film of oil. I keep my candles in a separate cabinet in plastic boxes. the original boxes with colored advertising, I wrap in tin foil to protect them for the bright Colorado sunlight.