Up for sale is an antique miniature kerosene oil lamp equipped with a rare "Little Wizard" burner assembly. The "Little Wizard" refers specifically to the brass wick-adjusting burner mechanism (patented around 1905 by the Fluid Wicks Company of Brooklyn, NY), which was a popular, compact design for small lamps in the early 20th century. This burner is known for its reliable flat-wick system, allowing adjustable flame height via the side knob etched with "Little Wizard." The overall lamp combines Victorian-era aesthetics with functional simplicity, making it a collectible piece for antique lighting enthusiasts, farmhouse decorators, or kerosene lamp restorers.

Key Physical Details

  • Base/Font (Reservoir): White milk glass (opaque porcelain-like glass) in a bulbous, globular shape, approximately 6 inches tall (9.5 inches with chimney) and 3.25 inches wide at the widest point. Features embossed or molded floral/leaf motifs with subtle gold (gilt) trim accents that have some patina from age. The base holds a small amount of kerosene (estimated 2-4 oz capacity). Bottom shows minor wear and residue, consistent with light use.

  • Burner Assembly: Brass construction with ornate crown-like gallery (prongs) to hold the chimney, a knurled wick tube, and the signature "Little Wizard" etched brass knob for wick adjustment. Includes a brass cap and ventilator top. The wick is present but appears dry and frayed (hemp or cotton, about 1/2-inch wide); it may need replacement for functionality. Shows tarnish and minor pitting, but no major dents or breaks—functional with cleaning.

  • Chimney (Glass Shade): Clear molded glass with yellow-painted tulip/lily flowers and green leaves/stems, about 3.5 inches tall, with a ruffled top edge. It is hurricane-style (tall and narrow) to protect the flame, with subtle crimped bases to fit the burner gallery. Minor flea-bite chips possible on edges, but overall clear and intact.

Age and Origin

  • Estimated Age: Circa 1895-1915 (late Victorian to early Edwardian era). The Little Wizard burner was introduced around 1905, and the milk glass style with floral painting was peak production in U.S. glassworks during this period. No exact manufacturer mark on base, but style matches output from American firms like Atterbury Glass Co. (Pittsburgh, PA) or Challinor Taylor & Co., often assembled with imported burners.

  • Origin: Made in the United States (burner from New York/Brooklyn; glass likely Pennsylvania or Ohio). These were mass-produced for middle-class homes as affordable "courting lamps" or bedside lights before widespread electrification.

Item dimensions: 9.5" tall (with chimney) × 3.25" wide × 3.25" deep  

Weight of item only: 10.1 oz

Styled With

1900s Little Wizard Burner Miniature Milk Glass Oil Lamp Floral Painted Chimney

You may also like