Klieg light

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June 30, 2026

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A Klieg light is a type of carbon arc lamp that was formerly used in filmmaking. The term is now often used figuratively to refer to intense public scrutiny. The lights were named after John H. and Anton T. Kliegl, German-born American lighting experts. The first known use of the term was in 1919.1

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motion-picture technology
Light sources
…arc instruments, such as the Klieg light (made by Kliegl Brothers and used for stage shows) were adapted for motion pictures. After the industry converted to sound in 1927, however, the sputtering created by carbon arcs caused them to be replaced by incandescent lighting. Fresnel-lens spotlights then became the standard.…
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…arc instruments, such as the Klieg light (made by Kliegl Brothers and used for stage shows) were adapted for motion pictures. After the industry converted to sound in 1927, however, the sputtering created by carbon arcs caused them to be replaced by incandescent lighting. Fresnel-lens spotlights then became the standard.…
Read More