In our ongoing quest to reproduce the best of period lighting, we happened upon the Plum and Paisley in catalogues from the early 1880s. What make these two fixtures so compelling is that they were some of the earliest electric lights ever made, and as such, represent historic advances in lighting design. In particular, with the advent of lights such as these, down-facing illumination became possible, which was not an option with gas lamps.

The Paisley of the 1880s at left, and the Paisley of the 2010s in the middle and at right

They also prove that great minds do indeed think alike – and when great minds work together, the results can be revolutionary. In this case, the great minds were partners Sigmund Bergmann and Thomas Edison. Bergmann collaborated closely with Edison, and patented an electric socket that contributed to bringing Edison’s new invention, the light bulb, to life. Happily, Bergmann also manufactured the originals of the Plum and Paisley.

As important as these fixtures are historically, we also love how they look. Stylistically, they straddle the line between Victorian and Industrial (which almost seems like an oxymoron). Plain yet fancy, straightforward yet whimsical, they hit that sweet spot between form and function.

We are happy to have the Plum and Paisley in the fold. Innovative as these fixtures are, we look forward to seeing the innovative ways our customers include them in their homes and workplaces.

Sigmund Bergmann