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18th Century LightingPage 2

Candlesticks ranged in style and cost from the utilitarian to the extravagant. For everyday use in middling households, brass candlesticks were popular, whereas in wealthy households, or for special occasions, silver would have been used. Candles were often placed in front of a mirror to reflect the light, and wall sconces of polished metal were used for the same reason.

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A lady reading by candlelight, artist unknown, c. 1780; black and white mezzotint.

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