Torchère

When it was first introduced in France towards the end of the 17th century the torchère mounted one candle only, and when the number was doubled or tripled the improvement was regarded almost as a revolution in the lighting of large rooms.

[2] Today, torchère lamps use fluorescent, halogen, or LED light bulbs.

Halogen torchères have been banned in some places, such as dormitories, because of the large numbers of fires they have caused.

The torchère was held responsible by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission for 100 fires and 10 deaths since 1992.

[3] Halogen bulbs operate at high temperatures and the tall height of the lamps brings them near flammable materials, such as curtains.

An Italian torchère, decorated with carved Acanthus leaves and clawed feet, in the Walters Art Museum