Ship Lanterns

Ship Lanterns For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of ship lanterns is available at 1stDibs. The range of distinct ship lanterns — often made from metal, brass and glass — can elevate any home. Find 398 antique and vintage ship lanterns at 1stDibs now, or shop our selection of 6 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished furniture. Ship lanterns have been made for many years, and versions that date back to the 19th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century. Ship lanterns are generally popular furniture pieces, but Arts and Crafts, industrial and Victorian styles are often sought at 1stDibs. Some ship lanterns are too large for some spaces — a variety of smaller ship lanterns, measuring 2.45 inches across, are available at 1stDibs. Ship lanterns have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by Meteorite, Davey Co. and Nippon Sento Company Ltd are consistently popular.

How Much are Ship Lanterns?

The average selling price for at 1stDibs is $1,695, while they’re typically $104 on the low end and $50,300 highest priced.

Finding the Right Lanterns for You

Whether you’re in search of a functional fixture to help illuminate a room or just a minimalist ornamental touch, the choice of lighting is important. Selecting the perfect vintage, new or antique lanterns can transform an otherwise monotonous space in your home.

In the 1700s, lanterns became widely popular when accessibility broadened for whale oil, as fuel for lamps was one of its earliest uses. Lantern design evolved considerably during the mid- to late 19th century, when a powerful, adaptable fuel came into play: kerosene. Portable and immediately sought after, kerosene lamps were traditionally surrounded by a glass globe or tube that sat on a metal frame to protect the flame from spreading or extinguishing. (While reproductions abound, antique kerosene lanterns have since become collector's items.)

Later, in 1862, John H. Irwin created coil oil lamps, which were designed for coal oils as well as kerosene and lessened the risk of fire. They required plentiful oxygen to remain lit, and with refinements, the lamps could be used indoors. Lanterns increasingly came to be part of commercial spaces such as museums and theaters, and over time, lighting artisans worked to refine and perfect these innovative fixtures so that they weren’t only practical but also elegant, sophisticated additions to home decor.

Antiques inject a touch of classical chic into any space. With the right lantern, you could also deepen the impact of the collection of vases and vessels, sculptures or other decorative objects in a living room or dining room. It’s essential to find a balance between utility and aesthetics when choosing the perfect vintage–style lantern for your space, and the right lighting decisions can determine the underlying mood of a room as well as enhance the choices you’ve made for your home’s decor. While old-time charm is something to be cherished, there is lots to love in modern lanterns from today’s top furniture designers.

On 1stDibs, search by creator to find lanterns crafted by the likes of Woka Lamps, Barovier Toso and Material Lust or browse the collection by style. From today’s standouts to mid-century modern classics to Art Deco–era innovations, find the best vintage, new or antique lantern for you now.

Questions About Ship Lanterns

Prices for most ship lanterns on 1stdibs are negotiable. You’ll see a "Make an Offer" button on the item details page, indicating that the seller is willing to consider a lower price. It’s not uncommon for customers to get 15–25% off the list price after negotiating. See our tips for negotiating like a pro.

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