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Since the beginning of humanity, people have attempted to create light in the darkness. We’ve come a long way since the discovery of fire, evolving lamps from rudimentary lighting devices to advanced and stylized objects, a core element of interior design. For nearly 100 years, the experts at Palette Studios in Cincinnati, OH, have provided local residents with upscale, custom lamps, shades, and fixtures and share an overview of the lamp’s place in history.

A Brief History of Lamps & Custom Lighting

Lamp Cincinnati OHEvidence of lamps — a simple shell or hollowed-out rock used to protect a flame — dates to 70,000 B.C. Since then, people have used a variety of resources, such as marble, metal and terracotta, to create better designs.

The fuel for the flame also improved. Instead of the animal fats used in early lamps, people began to burn fish or olive oil, and wicks were implemented to prolong the life of the flame. Oil lamps were the most popular illumination method until the end of the 18th century.

The Introduction of Electrical Light

Next in the evolution of lighting came one of mankind’s greatest inventions: the electrical lamp. In 1801, Sir Humphrey Davy invented the electric carbon arc lamp. While it paved the way for lamps as we know them today, the technology was primitive. The 1870s brought about much-needed improvements, with Thomas Edison and Sir Joseph Swan credited with inventing the electric incandescent lamp.

While Edison and Swan’s initial bulbs lasted only a short time, they were a significant leap forward for artificial lighting. The electric bulb experienced a major improvement in 1920 when tungsten replaced its carbon filament, prolonging the life of the bulb.

Technological advancements of electrical lamps continue today as people experiment with various power sources and materials. To find a lamp to suit your needs and design preferences, call Palette Studios in East Walnut Hills at (513) 961-1316 to discuss how beautiful lighting can transform your home. Visit their website for more information about their custom services and lamp repairs and to view their wide selection of unique floor lamps, table lamps, and chandeliers. Like them on Facebook for more tips from their custom lighting experts.

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