Suspension chandeliers and lanterns were designed to provide light by burning oil.  A wick would draw the oil (kerosene, whale or paraffin) and burn it.  These fixtures might have one central burning area or multiple arms holding oil fonts.  Some were designed to be lowered from the ceiling to provide more specific ambient light in a room.  With the advent of electricity in the late 1800s, they became less needed but are still lovely, large chandeliers that make a decided statement in today’s homes.