Consistent Pool Table Lighting

The game of pool has enthralled players since before the 1600s, and was known then as the "Noble game of Billiards." Over the years pool tables evolved and have since filled venues and homes worldwide.

Both pool tables and pool table lighting have not changed much in their basic design since the late 1800s. In order to have a fair view of the game, the table itself had to be illuminated properly. This called for a wider lighting range than a single lamp could provide.

Fact: Tables originally had flat walls for rails with their only function to keep the balls from falling off the sides. They resembled river banks, hence came the term bank shot.

Lighting the Field of Green

As time went by, many manufacturers started providing pool table lighting for both home and commercial use as pool tables were finding their way into many private rec rooms. This style of lighting found a niche with the pool table industry, but was also exceedingly successful in other areas of home illumination as well. Many pool table lights were similar to some used as dining lamps, counter lighting, and some commercial illumination.

As pool table lights can be used in a variety of ways, they are usually offered with options for changing height or hanging methods. Typically at least three lamps are combined into one unit to provide enough illumination to cover the entire table and slightly more. Most are shaded in some way whether with traditional stained glass or contemporary frosted shades.

Style and Design

Styles and designs of pool table lights are as varied as the people who play the game. Covered lights became the standard with the angled shaded glass and low orientation. This allowed for a venue that had many tables to focus the light down toward the game, not out into the bar.

This allowed a bar owner to have many lights in one room without illuminating the entire joint like the sun. Enclosed pool table lights usually feature either a design or logo, endorsing a liquor brand or sporting team. Many were constructed with stained glass to add color to the decor.

Depending on the setting more contemporary pool table lighting paid homage to the vintage designs of the past. Intricate wrought iron scrollwork, patina glass, brass, and decorative metalwork are all featured on modern designs.

Fact: Before the invention of the standard pool cue, players shoved the balls with wooden sticks called Maces. Using the back or cue of the mace was acceptable for men only as it was thought that women may damage the fabric on the table.