This is a stunning mid-19th-century American flint glass whale oil lamp. The piece features a beautifully molded font with a sophisticated Diamond, Crosshatch, and Thumbprint pattern, transitioning into a multi-sided hexagonal pedestal base. The base itself is decorated with a complementary etched-style crosshatch design at the bottom of each panel.
The lamp is topped with its original period brass and tin double-tube fluid burner. In the era of whale oil and burning fluid (camphine), these double burners were the height of efficiency. The glass is clear with the characteristic "glow" and slight imperfections (seed bubbles and straw marks) typical of 1840s–1850s manufacturing.
Height: 7.75 inches to the top of the burner tubes.
Base Width: 3.5 inches.
Pattern: Diamond & Crosshatch / Hexagonal Base.
Weight: Significant heft due to high lead content (Flint Glass).
Item Specifics
Material: EAPG Flint Glass, Brass, Tin.
Origin: United States (Likely New England area).
Age: Circa 1845–1855.
Condition: Excellent antique condition. No major chips or cracks to the font or base. Expected light shelf wear on the underside of the base. The burner has a natural aged patina and sits securely in the threaded brass collar.
Type: Whale Oil / Burning Fluid Stand Lamp.
Reference Citation
Source: Oil Lamps: The Kerosene Era in North America, by Catherine M. V. Thuro.Â
Note: While the book focuses on kerosene, Page 32 discusses the transition from whale oil and illustrates similar heavy flint glass fonts and hexagonal bases typical of the 1840s Boston & Sandwich styles.
Item dimensions: 7.5" tall × 3" diameter
Weight of item: 12.1 oz
Shipping calculated by eBay/USPS/UPS based on your ZIP code.
Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer’s responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing.
Customer Service Commitment
We truly value our customers and prioritize building lasting relationships through exceptional service. If you'd like additional photos or have questions about an item, we're more than happy to provide them promptly upon request. In the event of any concerns after purchase, please reach out to us as soon as possible—certainly before submitting feedback—so we can work together to resolve the matter swiftly and fairly. Our utmost focus is on customer satisfaction, and we'll do everything in our power to ensure every transaction is smooth, transparent, and positive for you.
Styled With
