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
2025.15
Condition Notes
The inside of the reservoir is dirty and contains a wick.
Provenance
Found in collections
Comments
Peg lamps were designed to fit into candlesticks, thereby converting them from burning wax to burning fluid, which gave off more and better light. The globular reservoir held whale oil in this instance, as suggested by the type of paired burners, which fit into the top and are held in place by cork. The bottom of the reservoir has a tapered peg.
The sides of the reservoir are decorated with twelve petal-shaped panels or facets. This peg lamp is very similar to another peg lamp, accession no. 2025.14, which differs only slightly in the shape of the globe. It was likely made using the same mold.
