This charming miniature whale oil lamp features a clear pressed glass construction with a blown bulbous font (reservoir) that transitions into a ribbed and twisted stem, supported by a square stepped base. The base measures approximately 2 inches wide and showcases an intricate starburst or rayed pattern on the underside, typical of Early American Pressed Glass (EAPG) designs. The lamp stands about 4 inches tall overall. It includes a single-tube drop-in burner with a cork fitting, though the burner appears slightly oversized and does not fit perfectly, suggesting it's not original to the piece. There is a visible line on the font that resembles a repaired crack, but it feels completely smooth to the touch, which could indicate a manufacturing flaw or an expert period repair. This lamp would have been used for whale oil or fluid fuels in the mid-19th century, providing soft illumination in homes before the advent of kerosene. It's a compact, decorative example ideal for collectors of early lighting or Victorian-era glassware.

Origin: American, attributed to the Boston & Sandwich Glass Company in Sandwich, Massachusetts. This factory was renowned for producing high-quality pressed glass items during the 19th century, and similar lamps have been documented in their output.

Age: Mid-19th century, likely dating to the 1830s-1850s based on the pressed glass technique and star/punty pattern, which became popular after the 1820s. While whale oil lamps existed in the early 1800s, this piece's pressed base and design elements suggest it is not from the very early 1800s (pre-1825), when lamps were typically fully hand-blown without mechanical pressing.

Material: Clear lead glass (flint glass) for the body, with pressed and blown elements; metal (likely pewter or tin) burner with cork insert.

Condition: Good antique condition with expected signs of age, including light surface wear and minor interior residue. The potential crack line is smooth and stable, not affecting structural integrity—possibly a manufacturing defect rather than damage. Burner is functional but oversized, which may require adjustment or replacement for perfect fit.

Item dimensions: 4" tall × 2.5" diameter 

Weight of item: 4.5 oz  

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