Wrought iron has been a design element in furnishings for centuries, including in the creation of chandeliers and light fixtures.  Unlike cast iron, wrought iron is heated and then shaped by skilled blacksmiths into the desired form.  It is a very strong material, lasts forever, and can easily marry function and ornate design. 

 

Wrought iron was used in the creation of antique fixtures because of its strength but also because it was relatively easy and soft for a blacksmith to work with as they hammered and shaped the metal.

 

Marble was considered a high-end material, associated with wealth and grandeur, reflecting the sophisticated tastes of the elite during periods like the Louis XV and Louis XVI eras.  The natural beauty of marble, with its unique veining and subtle luster, added a touch of elegance and visual interest to the furniture. French artisans often selected marble slabs for their color, veining, and durability, and carefully polished them to enhance their natural beauty. Marble is a naturally hard and dense stone, making it resistant to scratches, chips, and damage. It is also heat-resistant and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for surfaces like commodes and buffets, which were used for both storage and serving.  Marble tops provided a beautiful contrast to the intricately carved and often gilded wooden bases of French furniture. The thick overhanging tops also helped to accentuate the forms of the furniture pieces.