An exceptional late 19th-century kerosene stand lamp manufactured by Adams & Company. This piece features the iconic "Minerva" (Roman Medallion) figural stem in opaque black glass, showcasing embossed panels of the goddess Minerva and a classical warrior. The stem is joined by a brass connector to a colorless glass font in the "Diamond and Dot" pattern, which has been treated with a soft satin (frosted) finish. Notably, the font includes a rare side-refill feature. The lamp is fitted with a No. 2 Taplin-Brown brass collar.
Literature & References: This lamp is a documented assembly by Adams & Company (Pittsburgh, PA), featured in the standard references by Catherine M.V. Thuro:
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Stem: The figural Minerva stem in opaque black is documented in Oil Lamps: The Kerosene Era in North America (Vol. I), p. 206.
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Font: The "Diamond and Dot" font pattern is illustrated in Oil Lamps III, p. 92, fig. a, as a correct Adams & Co. component for high-grade composite lamps.
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Hardware: The No. 2 Taplin-Brown collar is a period-correct brass fitting consistent with Adams production from 1880–1890 with Eagle burner.
Origin: Adams & Company, Pittsburgh, PA
Age: Circa 1880–1890
Material: Opaque black glass (base), colorless frosted glass (font), brass (connector/collar)
Condition Report:
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Overall: Very good antique condition with strong strikes on the figural panels.
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Font: The satin finish remains consistent. The fill cap is currently frozen (unturned) and shows a small split in the metal top.
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Base: Massive black glass base shows light surface wear consistent with age. There is a shallow, localized chip on the glass just below the brass connector and a small chip on the edge of one foot (refer to photos). Small split in filler cap.
Item dimensions: 14" tall (w/chimney) × 6 5/8" diameter Â
Weight of item: 2 lb 15.4 oz
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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
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