Offered for sale is a rare antique whale oil lamp, dating to the 1820s–1840s, a fine example of early American glass craftsmanship. This piece features a bulb-shaped, hand-blown flint glass font designed to hold whale oil, joined to a sturdy stepped base with graduated tiers for stability. The base measures approximately 3 inches wide, and the total height is 7.5 inches. The lamp is topped with an original single cork burner, featuring a short pewter or early brass wick tube, typical of pre-1850 designs before kerosene conversion. The glass showcases authentic imperfections like minor bubbles and a possible pontil mark on the base, indicative of free-blown construction, likely from the Sandwich Glass Company or similar period makers.

This lamp represents an important piece of American lighting history, used during the peak of the whaling industry (1780–1860) before being phased out by brighter kerosene alternatives. The clear glass offers a classic aesthetic, with a soft, rounded font and elegant stepped base, making it a standout for collectors of early Americana, nautical artifacts, or antique glassware.

Condition is very good for its age, with minor cloudiness and scratches on the glass from historical use, and slight drying of the cork (still intact but may require replacement for functionality). The pewter tube shows light tarnish, adding to its authentic patina. There are no major cracks or chips visible, though the base may have minor wear consistent with 200+ years of handling. This item is sold as a decorative collectible and has not been tested with modern lamp oil (e.g., mineral oil) due to its age and fragility. A replacement wick can be sourced separately for display purposes.

Perfect for antique enthusiasts or as a unique addition to a vintage lighting collection.  Happy to provide additional images upon request!

Item Specifics

• Maker: Attributed to early American glassmakers, possibly Sandwich Glass Company (unmarked, typical for period)

• Age: Circa 1820–1840 (early to mid-19th century)

• Original/Reproduction: Original

• Color: Clear

• Material: Hand-blown flint glass, cork, and pewter or early brass burner

• Style: Early American, whale oil table lamp

• Condition Description: Very good condition for age. Minor cloudiness and scratches on glass from use; cork shows slight drying (may be a replacement); pewter tube with light tarnish. No cracks or chips visible; base intact with possible minor wear. Untested with modern oil (sold as decorative collectible).

Item dimensions: 7.5 in tall × 3 in wide × 3 in deep  

Weight of item only: 10.7 oz