Peg lamp
Probably United States
1830-1860
Measurements
4-7/8 in x 3-1/4 in (dia)
Materials
Glass and iron (burners)
Credit Line
Historic Odessa Foundation
Accession Number
2025.14
Condition Notes
The inside of the reservoir is dirty and contains an old wick.
Provenance
Found in collections
Comments
This peg lamps, designed to fit into a candlestick, enabled the user to burn a fluid rather than depend on wax. Fluids generated better light. The double burner on this lamp was designed for whale oil, which had been popular since the late 18th century. The whale oil burner fit into the top of the reservoir with a cork. The peg at the bottom was tapered to allow it to fit into most candlesticks.
The sides of this reservoir are decorated with twelve petal-shaped panels or facets—almost identical to another peg lamp, accession no. 2025.15. The two lamps may have used the same mold, the differences coming from variations in blowing and handwork.
