The Meaning of Tôle in Classical Furniture and Decor

Tôle refers to sheet metal, typically tin, painted and used in furniture-making. It’s commonly found in lanterns, candle holder shades, oil lamp covers, and similar products. During the French Empire, numerous vases and jardinieres were crafted from tôle and painted to resemble antique classical styles. Italy and Spain strongly preferred tôle items, especially lamps and lanterns, during earlier times.

Sources

The Dictionary of Antiques and the Decorative Arts: A Book of Reference for Glass, Furniture, Ceramics, Silver, Periods, Styles, Technical Terms, Etc. (1967). United States: Scribner.