Mission Style
decor is characterized by geometric elements and rich wood finishes.
A subset of the Arts and Crafts style that was popular in the early 1900s, Mission Style continues to be influential in the design of furniture, architecture and interior decor even today. Characterized by simple geometric patterns and rich finishes, Mission Style is particularly well suited to the design of lamps, where metal and glass shades are often married with wooden bases. Decorators may choose Mission Style lamps that range from costly antiques to affordable modern pieces. Does this Spark an idea?
Antique Lamps
The most expensive way to bring the Mission Style into your lighting decor is to buy an authentic antique lamp. Lamps designed and manufactured by the most famous Arts and Crafts designers, such as Gustav Stickley and Charles Limbert, are prized for their craftsmanship and elegant design. However, these antique lamps are rare and eagerly sought by collectors, and genuine antique lamps often sell at auction for tens of thousands of dollars.
Antique Reproductions
For those who want a Stickley lamp but don't have a bank account that will allow the purchase of the real thing, a reproduction could be an acceptable solution. Reproductions are manufactured by craftsmen to mimic the look of particular antique lamp designs, often even using electrical cords that resemble antique wiring. Wood finishes aim to replicate the hue of the original designs, and metal parts are chemically aged. Reproductions typically cost several hundred dollars but are still a fraction of the cost of an authentic antique.
Craftsman Lamps
Lamps designed and built by contemporary craftsman in the style of Mission originals occupy a price point between antique lamps and reproductions. These lamps are contemporary pieces designed by artisans using the principles of the Arts and Crafts style but which do not copy a particular antique design. Craftsman lamps typically utilize traditional materials, including wood, metal and finishes, and they may or may not be artificially aged to give them an antique look. Craftsman lamps commonly cost more than a thousand dollars.
Mass-Produced Lamps
Contemporary mass-produced lamps are the least expensive option for designers on a limited budget. Designed with the basic concepts of the Mission Style in mind, these lamps use materials that replicate the look of antique lamps without incurring the cost of the finest finishes or hand craftsmanship. Mass-produced lamps are available from mainstream retailers and typically cost less than $200.
Tags: Mission Style, antique lamps, Arts Crafts, antique lamp, Arts Crafts style, authentic antique, Crafts style