Welcome to Ancient Lighting!
We specialise in sourcing and restoring classic stage lanterns and accessories from the post war period and making them suitable for domestic and commercial use in the 21st century.
With over 40 years professional experience providing technical services to theatres and entertainers we have unrivalled contacts and can locate virtually any kind of lantern or effect for clients.
Please browse through the site using the buttons above for examples of the types of lanterns that we have in stock or can acquire for you.
The years following the second world war saw an explosion in the range and styles of specialist stage and film lighting. Many classic designs and brands appeared on the market and revolutionised the way stages were illuminated. Now with the coming of digital and LED technologies the last of these classic designs are being retired. With many years practical hands-on experience of working with these period lanterns we are ideally placed to source and re-engineer them for today's customers in different markets. We are based in Cornwall and have both restored and as-found lanterns for sale. We can also re-wire and finish lanterns to your specifications or any stage of completion. Restorations can include stripping back to bare metal and either powder-coating to any RAL colour or polishing Lanterns can be refitted with a variety of lamp-holders, cable and connectors. Options include barn-doors, period or contemporary stands, or a range of hanging clamps. All restored lanterns are tested for electrical safety before despatch and come with a PAT certificate. We can also undertake search commissions, so if there is a particular style or make of lantern that you require - please give us a call.
to a mirror finish.
If you are uncertain as to the type of lantern but know the effect or look you want we are always available to advise you. Please use our Contact Us page to ask any questions you might have.
- Lanterns are also available fully re-wired but in their as found condition so as to fully display their heritage and patina.
- Lanterns can be powdercoated to any RAL colour to match your own decor.
- Trade Terms available.
- We have a vast knowledge of film and theatre lighting from this time period, so if you don't see what you are looking for please contact us as we have a large library of original trade catalogues and can suggest makes and styles to fit your own designs. If we do not have specific lanterns in stock we will almost certainly be able to source them for you.
Copper or Chrome plating
We can now Copper or Chrome plate any of our restored lanterns.
Restored Lighting
Un-restored Lighting
We can also colour any of the restored lanterns to any of the RAL colours for £40 for a single colour, if you would like multiple colours please contact us for a price.