To get to the true origin of the torchiere lamp, we have to go back a long way in history, to when our ancestors discovered fire. Yes, our beautiful torchiere lamps today have their roots in a humble camp or cave thousands of years ago.
Darkness, the absence of light, is feared by humans today as it was long ago. The absence of light is a very uncomfortable and vulnerable feeling for an animal whose keenest sense is sight. Humanity has always wanted to illuminate this darkness and to do so in the most efficient way possible. Some time after our ancestors learned to make a fire, they learned that a raised fire provided more light than one set on the ground, just as it does today. Organic materials were used on wooden sticks and then oils from animal fats were added to increase combustion. Later vessels made of stone and clay were created to hold the oils and these were raised on wooden or stone banners to provide a better source of light. With the discovery of metals, these were used in combination with stone and clay as upright banners, as well as vessels for burning oils. These were the true forerunners of today’s torchiere lamps.
A torchiere lamp is any table or floor lamp whose light is directed upwards by means of a glass, metal, stone, plastic or other reflector. These lamps take many shapes and are made of many materials.
The word “torchiere” is derived from the French word “torche” for torch.
