If you are a bit unfamiliar with the term Tiffany lighting and the history of its appearance in the American marketplace, perhaps a brief lesson in history is in order before we highlight the two premier Tiffany manufacturers of today.

Although Tiffany lighting first became popular at the turn of the century when most homes began to be equipped with electricity, its history begins much earlier than that with an artist named Louis Comfort Tiffany. Before the turn of the century his work graced many American homes and public buildings in the form of paintings, tapestries, tiles, stained glass windows, wall paper, vases and lamps.

But it was only after he invented a way to process glass into opalescent and beautifully crafted objects used for home decoration that he experienced phenomenal success. It is this process of producing iridescent glass known as “Favrile” that Tiffany is most remembered for. He produced decorative objects such as trays, jewel boxes, clocks, desk sets, lampshades and candlesticks which were very popular gift items. But after the advent of electricity, Tiffany’s lamp department took center stage and shone above the rest of his works in terms of popularity. This increase in popularity led Tiffany to produce more items along these lines including ceiling fixtures and hanging lampshades.

Tiffany was a hands-on master at his craft. Tiffany lamps during his time period were either hand crafted by Tiffany himself or crafted by artisans directly under his supervision.

Today, leading manufacturers have used Tiffany’s designs and techniques as inspiration to continue the legacy of these beautiful art glass lighting products. Some manufacturers have stood out from the rest, like Dale Tiffany and Meyda Tiffany who are world-famous manufacturers of fine Tiffany reproductions and new Tiffany styled lighting fixtures.

Meyda Tiffany is the name of one of America’s leading and oldest manufacturers of decorative lighting and Tiffany lamps in particular. This family-operated business has experienced phenomenal success in the home lighting industry.

Meyda’s collection includes ceiling fixtures, novelty lighting, landscape lighting, wall sconces, windows, furniture and fireplace screens. The company’s Old Forge crafted steel line features original, natural and wildlife themes, and includes chandeliers, napkin holders, fireplace screens, candleholders, towel racks, bookends, lamps, coat racks and many, many more. And with one of the industry’s leading new product development program, new styles and designs are added weekly.

Today, Dale Tiffany stands out from the rest as the foremost designer of fine Tiffany style lighting and home accents. This company delivers the highest quality and an exclusive range of designs.

Using techniques involving hand-rolled art glass, copper foil and assembly methods developed by Tiffany himself, Dale Tiffany features stained glass, reverse-painted glass, Favrile and hand-blown glass works of art which draw their inspiration from great designers such as Frank Lloyd Wright and L.C. Tiffany. While the original reproductions are always popular, Dale Tiffany also offers lighting options that mirror today’s styles and trends.

So, if you are looking for unique Tiffany styled lighting to grace your home, do not be fooled by knock-off manufacturers. Only purchase from the best.

About the Author:

Pamela Tice is the owner of numerous lighting and home decor websites including http://www.simplytablelamps.com . Her store offers a complete selection of trendy Table Lamps and faboulous Home Lighting ranging in styles such a Mission, Contemporary, Traditional and Tiffany lamps.

Article Source: www.iSnare.com