With feet in both the 19th and 20th centuries, the Victorian era saw a huge transformation of lighting technology and the evolution of many styles. The period began with gas-powered lighting, which transitioned to electricity just before the turn of the century. During that exciting time, unusual fixtures were made to utilize both technologies: gas-electric combination lights. While fixtures are often formal, bordering on ostentatious, the many variations (including Eastlake, Aesthetic, Rococo, Empire, etc.) are typically characterized by the Victorian love of ornamentation and detail. Because the light provided by gas and early bulb technology was very dim by today’s standards, the fixtures were frequently furnished with incredible glass shades. Frosted, etched, mirrored, prismatic – all of these shade designs were meant to show off or magnify the light, which feebly emanated from flickering flames and filaments.