A Stunning Pair of Mercury Glass Pendant Lights
Price is for the pair
Moulded glass shades with a waved ridged pattern, original aged paint to the external and foxed silvered glass internals with aged brass fittings and chain.
Original makers marks to the shades made by MORCO, TB Morley & Co of Hull, England.
The glass however looks to have been made in czecho-slovakia circa 1930.
The external paint has remained mainly intact with only a minimal amount of flaking and the internal silvered finish has amazing foxing from the decades of use giving the most wonderful lighting effect that cannot be replicated in modern light fittings.
The lights are finished with aged brass stepped galleries with hook and aged brass chain.
A beautiful pair of lights which create the most wonderful lighting effect perfect for creating the most amazing ambient light in any interior space, especially good for light coves and corners.
The light come wired with our premium black twist fabric cable and ready to install with ceiling roses included.
Our wooden life size model is 6 ft 1" in. height to give a good idea of size and scale.
Mercury Glass Light Shades: Timeless Elegance
Mercury glass, first developed in the mid-19th century, is celebrated for its shimmering, mirror-like finish and enduring versatility. Often called "silvered glass," mercury glass was crafted with a double-walled construction, with a silvering solution applied to the interior. This innovative technique gave the glass its signature metallic sheen, making it a favoured material for decorative objects, including light shades.
During the mid-20th century, mercury glass light shades gained particular prominence in commercial and theatrical settings. Their reflective quality made them ideal for shop window displays, where they enhanced the illumination of merchandise, creating a bright and captivating effect to draw in customers. In theaters, mercury glass shades were often used as part of stage lighting, where their ability to diffuse and amplify light added a dramatic ambiance, enhancing the visual impact of performances.
The Materials and Craftsmanship Behind Mercury Glass
Mercury glass light shades were meticulously crafted to combine both beauty and durability. The double-walled glass construction allowed for intricate designs while protecting the inner silvered layer from wear. The silvering process, often achieved using silver nitrate or similar compounds, gave the shades their radiant, reflective quality. Many shades were further adorned with etched patterns, ribbed textures, or hand-applied designs, enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
Paired with hardware made from materials like brass, nickel, or bronze, mercury glass shades elevated the overall design of light fixtures, blending seamlessly with both classic and modern interiors. Their luminous finish provided a warm, ambient glow, making them as functional as they were decorative.
Mercury Glass in Modern Interiors
Today, reclaimed mercury glass light shades are highly sought after for their vintage charm and versatility. Their reflective surface adds depth and warmth to interiors, making them perfect for creating inviting, atmospheric lighting. Whether used as pendant lights over a dining table, accent lighting in living rooms, or statement pieces in kitchens, mercury glass shades bring a sense of historical sophistication to contemporary spaces.
Their connection to shop window displays and theater lighting adds an intriguing narrative to their appeal. Incorporating these shades into interiors not only introduces a unique design element but also pays homage to their role in commercial and artistic history.
Why Choose Reclaimed Mercury Glass Light Shades?
Reclaimed mercury glass light shades offer a chance to own a piece of design and cultural history. Their radiant finish, combined with their association with mid-century retail and theater design, makes them standout pieces for any home or commercial space. Their reflective quality enhances lighting, creating an inviting and elegant ambiance that suits a wide range of interior styles.
Choosing reclaimed mercury glass shades also supports sustainable design practices, giving these historical artefact's a new life while reducing waste. Whether you’re drawn to their shimmering beauty or their fascinating past, mercury glass light shades remain timeless and captivating, making them an exceptional choice for modern interiors.
| Technical Details |
|
| Bulb Type |
B22 |
| Maximum Wattage |
60 watts |
| Height |
300 mm |
| Width |
200 mm |
| Distance from Wall |
300 mm |
| Colour |
Grey, Gold, Brown, Silver
|
|
Material |
Glass, Brass |
| Weight |
1.5 kg |
