SEEING TO EAT

Dominion, Volume 27, Issue 17, 14 October 1933, Page 15

SEEING TO EAT

Dining-room Lighting

There exists an idea that diningroom lights should be low, and at some dinner parties their dim religiosity is such that it is difficult to see the food provided. Electric light has raised the standard of lighting in everybody’s mind, and to be called upon suddenly to dine by the light of four candles which all the time cause a certain anxiety about the shades no longer adds to the amenity of the party. Nor is the light of four candles especially becoming, even where make-up is a commonplace. Too often they act as footlights and put shadows on the face in the wrong place.

Some people cope with dinner-table lights by having ornamental lighting in the middle of the table. As this is often soft it may be becoming, but really to look well on faces light should at least be even with the face and preferably a little above it. The ordinary bowls or light fittings, through which light is perceptibly softened and is not too white and glaring, must be admitted to be rather a relief after unskilled lighting effects of table centres and candles. .'-ctually most people prefer to see their food. While fish bones may not be a problem the entrees often require a certain amoupt of discrimination. In any case most people like to see clearly what they are eating and most of them would sacrifice artistic inclinations to this preference. Also it is pleasant to see clearly the face of the person to whom one is talking. words are not the only means of communication, and expression and gesture often lend point or give the lie to much that is said. If anything, a dining-room should be really well lighted instead of being a mystery. For mysteries in cooking or in conversation alike are apt to prove bam.iities which lack of lighting tries in vain to hide.