How to Buy European Antique Lighting Online Safely | Maison Jaspers

How to Buy European Antique Lighting Online (Safely and Confidently)

Buying antique lighting online can feel a little bit like falling in love through a screen. You see a beautiful wall sconce or chandelier, your heart skips a beat – but you also wonder: Is it as good as it looks? Is it safe? Will it really fit my home?

At Maison Jaspers, we believe that buying a rare piece of European lighting should feel exciting, not risky. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key things to look for when shopping online – and how we’ve designed our process to make each step as safe and transparent as possible.

1. Start with the seller, not the lamp

Before you fall for a piece, look at who is offering it.

A trustworthy antique lighting dealer will:

• Specialise in vintage and antique objects (not just “a bit of everything”)

• Provide detailed descriptions instead of a few vague lines

• Show real knowledge about materials, periods and techniques

• Communicate quickly and clearly when you ask a question

At Maison Jaspers, we focus on hand-picked European vintage and antique lighting: gilt bronze, marble, stone, glass and other high-quality materials. Every piece is selected, researched and described individually. We’d rather offer fewer pieces that we truly stand behind, than many pieces we can’t fully explain.

If you feel the seller is hiding information or rushing you, that’s a sign to step back.

2. Look for honest, detailed photography

Good photos are your best friend when buying antiques online.

Ideally, a listing should include:

• Full front view of the lamp

• Side and back views

• Close-ups of details: bronze work, carving, glass, patina

• Photos of any defects or wear, not only the perfect angles

• Photos in context (for example next to a chair or table) to understand scale

At Maison Jaspers, we go further by creating 3D models of our pieces. This allows you to:

• Rotate the object 360°

• Zoom in on details

• Experience the lamp almost as if you’re holding it in your hands

The goal is simple: no surprises when the piece arrives – only the pleasant kind.

3. Read the condition description carefully

Every antique piece has a history. Small signs of age are part of its charm, but they should never be a surprise.

A good condition report will mention:

• Whether the piece is fully original, partly restored or heavily restored

• Small defects: hairline cracks, wear to gilt, chips in marble, small dents

• Structural issues: loose arms, repairs, replacements

At Maison Jaspers, we try to describe condition in calm, clear language. If something has been restored, we say so. If a piece has a tiny chip or a soft bend, we point it out and show it in the photos and 3D model.

If you’re unsure, ask. A serious dealer will always be happy to send extra photos or clarify anything.

4. Check measurements – and then check them again

In photos, a delicate bedside lamp and a grand hallway lamp can look almost the same size. That’s why measurements are crucial.

Always look for:

• Total height (with shade if included)

• Width / diameter of the base or shade

• Depth for wall sconces (how far they stick out from the wall)

Before you buy:

• Measure the space where the lamp will go

• Compare the dimensions with something you already own (for example, another lamp or a bookcase shelf)

• For wall sconces and chandeliers, consider door frames, ceiling height and walking paths

At Maison Jaspers, we include precise measurements in each listing. Our goal is that when the lamp arrives, it feels exactly right for your room – not too small, not overwhelming.

5. Understand wiring, voltage and safety

When you buy European antique lighting for a home in another country – especially the United States – wiring is an important topic.

Things to consider:

• Voltage: Most of Europe uses 220–240V, the US uses 110–120V

• Plugs: Shape and standard vary by region

• Age of wiring: Many antique lamps have been rewired at some point in their life

At Maison Jaspers, we:

• Clearly indicate the current wiring status in the description

• Mention whether a piece has been rewired or still has older wiring

• Can often adapt/facilitate things like plugs for US buyers, or advise on what to discuss with a certified electrician

Our recommendation is always: for any installation or rewiring, use a qualified electrician in your own country. This ensures that your lamp is both safe and compliant with local regulations.

6. Ask how the piece will be packed and shipped

Antique lamps are often fragile: glass shades, fine gilt bronze, marble bases, delicate arms. Good packing is not a “detail” – it is essential.

When you’re considering a purchase, look for:

• Double boxing or custom inner protection

• Foam or custom supports to keep the lamp from moving

• Soft protective materials around delicate surfaces

• Clear communication of shipping method and insurance

Maison Jaspers treats each piece almost like a museum object in transit. We invest in secure packing materials, custom supports and protective layers so that your lamp arrives safely – whether it travels within Europe or across the ocean.

We also offer worldwide shipping and can advise you on delivery times and options for your country.

7. Check guarantees, returns and communication

Even with perfect photos and careful descriptions, buying something unique online requires trust.

Ask yourself:

• Does the seller clearly state their return policy?

• Do they offer any form of satisfaction guarantee?

• How quickly and clearly do they respond to questions?

Maison Jaspers aims for a 100% satisfaction mindset. If something isn’t as described, we want to solve it. Open communication before and after the sale is part of the experience.

When you buy an antique lamp, you’re not just buying an object – you’re starting a relationship with the person who selected, described and packed it for you.

8. How Maison Jaspers makes buying antique lighting online easier

We created Maison Jaspers to make it possible to buy rare, characterful antique lighting online with confidence, even from another continent.

Our approach:

• Careful curation – each piece is chosen for its quality, character and craftsmanship

• Extensive photography & 3D models – to reduce uncertainty and bring the piece to life on your screen

• Honest condition reports – so you know exactly what you are buying

• Worldwide shipping & professional packing – designed around fragile, unique objects

• Personal contact – we’re always happy to answer questions, send extra photos or help you choose

If you’re curious to explore, browse our collection and try our 3D viewer. And if you’re hesitating about a particular lamp, just reach out – we’re here to make sure that when the right piece finds you, you can say “yes” with confidence.