[Anon], ‘Electric Light and the Metal Crafts’

Suffice it for the present purpose to indicate briefly a few typical examples of fittings which combine all practical essentials with dignity or grace of form, sacrificing true ornament to utility, nor utility to mere extravagance or profusion of ornament. Lantern-brackets, wall sconces, and cressets, with lamps of many an ancient form, appeal to the observing eye with a grace of line and a suitability of device which the grime of centuries cannot impair, and for which the works of too many modern craftsmen may be searched in vain. The hideous things which cumber the ironmongers' shops under the label of "Art Metal Work" represent, to a great extent, good material spoiled by inartistic or unintelligent design and craftsmanship. The use of carved, pierced, or inlaid wood in association with skilfully fashioned metal accessories offers extended possibilities to the followers of this branch of latter-day craftsmanship.