This is a premier example of mid-19th-century American lighting artistry. The lamp features a vibrant Cranberry (Ruby) lead glass font embellished with a hand-etched (cut-to-clear) "Grape and Vine" frosted motif.
Unlike most examples found today, this lamp is complete with its original-style double-tube tin whale oil burner. This specific burner type was engineered for the high-viscosity whale oil of the era; the dual tubes allowed for two round wicks to be placed in close proximity, creating a singular, brighter flame.
The unusually large font is joined via a brass connector to a fluted brass column, resting on a classic white Carrara marble base. The underside reveals the authentic 19th-century construction, featuring the original iron tie-rod and square nut assembly.
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Glasswork: Excellent clarity with period-correct "seeds" (tiny air bubbles) and faint straw marks within the glass.
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Burner: Period-correct double-tube whale oil burner with fine threading; fits the collar perfectly.
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Hardware: Original brass shows a rich, uncleaned aged patina.
Origin & Age
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Origin: United States (Attributed to Boston & Sandwich Glass Co. or New England Glass Co.)
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Age: Circa 1845–1860
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Material: Lead Glass, Brass, Marble, Tin
Condition Report: Collector’s Grade - The large cranberry font is in exceptional condition with no chips, cracks, or internal "clouding" from old fuel. The marble base is solid with only the minor, expected "flea bites" at the sharp corners typical of 150+ year old stone. The burner is intact and threads smoothly.
Scholarly Reference for Citation:
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Book Title: Oil Lamps: The Kerosene Era in North America
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Author: Catherine M. V. Thuro
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Page Number: 48–51
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Citation: Thuro identifies these "Composite Lamps" (glass/brass/marble) with etched cranberry fonts as the luxury standard of the 1850s, specifically noting the high-quality wheel-cut patterns produced by New England glasshouses.
Item dimensions: 14.25" tall (no chimney) × 5" wide across base × 7" deep diagonally across base
Weight of item: 4 lb 15.3 oz
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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
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