Lighting restoration is the specialist process of repairing, cleaning and making safe antique and vintage light fittings so they can be used and enjoyed again. It combines metalworking, glass and electrical skills, and the aim is to return a fitting to sound working order while preserving its original character and materials.
Typical work includes dismantling and cleaning metalwork, repairing broken arms, bobeches and frames, replacing missing drops or glass components, straightening bent parts, re-lacquering or re-gilding where appropriate, and fully rewiring with new lamp holders, cable and an earth connection where required. Oil and gas fittings may be sympathetically converted to electricity, ideally in a reversible way that does not damage original parts. Good restoration avoids over-polishing, which can remove gilding, plating and desirable patina. Restored fittings should be electrically tested before sale. Buyers of antique lighting should ask what restoration has been carried out, as properly restored pieces offer the beauty of original period lighting with the reliability and safety expected today.
