Reading lamp
England
1820-1840
Measurements
19-1/4 in x 9 in x 5-3/4 in (dia)
Materials
Brass and iron
Credit Line
Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp
Accession Number
1958.3229
Condition Notes
The lamp has been electrified. The shade has been reattached to the arm by soldering. The paint on the underside of the lamp is delaminating.
Provenance
Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp
Comments
The brass reading lamp is of similar to oil-burning lamps except for substitution of a candle holder for the more complex and expensive burner, oil reservoir, and glass chimney, all of which emitted better light. An arm extending from the square upright rod holds a candle in a simple socket without a drip pan. The level of the candle can be adjusted by a brass key that screws in to tighten the sliding joint. A similar key adjusts the sheet brass shade above the candle. It has an elaborately rolled foliate molding encircling the center hole. The underside of the shade is painted white to improve reflection of light. The molded dome base of the lamp fits over an iron dome that provides weight and stability. A ring atop the vertical rod provides easy handling.
