The classic French Provence style, sometimes called the French rustic style, originated in the early twentieth century in the south of the country.
Provence not only welcomes, but strongly recommends the use of decor with wrought iron details. They always look appropriate in the interior and fit perfectly into the overall picture of the room.
Typically, Provence-style chandeliers are made of bronze (an alloy of tin and copper). These are massive forged designs. In addition, they can be made of brass or aluminum. Usually these are cheaper samples, designed for an average level of income.
Provence chandeliers are distinguished by the fact that their lamps are almost always directed to the ceiling. Lighting is not too bright, rather muffled, soft, pleasant to the eyes. Quite often, chandeliers have an original frame in the form of an elegant vine. In accordance with the Provence style, the lighting in the house should not be blinding, therefore, ceiling lights are equipped with rheostats that adjust the brightness of the light.
There is an opinion that ceramics are not too suitable for the production of lighting devices.
Modern professional designers from European companies strongly disagree with this statement. In their opinion, it is ceramics that are the most suitable material for creating a chandelier in the Provence style, which can decorate a room. Elegant and sophisticated ceiling lights are ideal for any room: living room, bedroom, kitchen.
When looking at some chandeliers in the Provence style (photos are available in this article), it seems that they are handmade. In fact, many exclusive designs are created using manual labor. Provence-style ceiling lights are characterized by a seeming negligence. They slightly resemble similar patterns in the Romanesque style. Holders are often made of natural wood. It is possible to use metal fittings, but it should not be polished and shiny. Sometimes metal in such products is decorated in such a way that imitates other natural materials.
Modern designers creating chandeliers in the Provence style prefer to work with natural materials.
They can be unprocessed: these are, for example, valuable species of wood, metal, fabric with rough weaving. A win-win option is to buy a Provence-style chandelier with handmade trim. It can be a patchwork style wrap, in the form of macrame or knitted lace. Such refined decor will create a cozy home environment.
The rustic design gives artists unlimited scope for imagination. In addition to the classic options, the most unexpected materials are used for elite chandeliers. There are designer models with shades of straw, shades of clay. For decoration, chipped ceramic tiles, sea shells, pebbles are used.
Many are interested in what a chandelier should be for a kitchen. Provence recommends forged rooms with candle-shaped lamps for this room. In addition, a chandelier with an artificially aged surface will look harmoniously and quite appropriate.