Presenting a magnificent and commanding example of early American lighting technology: an authentic Flint Glass Whale Oil Lamp dating to the antebellum period, circa 1835–1845. This exceptional piece showcases a striking combination of a hand-blown, elongated pear-shaped font expertly attached via a multi-ringed wafer to a heavy, pressed-glass tiered quatrefoil (cloverleaf) base.

The lamp stands as a prime testament to the technological innovations of early American glass houses like the Boston & Sandwich Glass Company, blending free-blown and early press-molded glassmaking techniques.

The lamp retains its original antique open collar and is accompanied by a mid-20th-century double-tube drop-in cork burner, allowing it to be displayed safely as an illustrative evolution of historical lighting accessories. Included is a vintage collector's inventory tag from January 21, 1998, attributing the lamp to the Dan Pinnell collection.

Origin & Age

• Country of Origin: United States (Sandwich, Massachusetts)

• Manufacturer: Attributed to Boston & Sandwich Glass Company

• Period / Age: Early 19th Century, Circa 1835–1845

Materials & Measurements

• Material: Heavy Lead Glass / Flint Glass

• Height: Approx. 11.75 inches to top of font / 12+ inches to top of burner

• Base Diameter: 3.75 inches across the quatrefoil footprint

Condition Report

Offered in honest, "as-found" antique condition to preserve its historical integrity. The hand-blown font is remarkably clean and brilliant with minor internal cleaning residue appropriate to age. The heavy pressed cloverleaf base shows expected signs of authentic period handling and manufacturing anomalies, including minor flea bites and one distinct vintage chip along the lower tiered edge. No structural cracks or institutional repairs; the piece remains sound and displays beautifully.

Reference

For a matching or highly comparable design analysis of early American pressed bases and blown fonts from this specific era, please refer to:

• Book: A Guide to Sandwich Glass Whale Oil Lamps and Accessories by Raymond E. Barlow and Joan E. Kaiser (Schiffer Publishing).

• Note: Similar multi-tiered lobed/quatrefoil bases and baluster stem variants are well-documented within Chapter 1, highlighting the early production years of the Boston & Sandwich works.

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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. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.

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