This is a rare and historically significant 18th-century pewter spout lamp, featuring the prestigious Bremen "Key in Shield" hallmark. The lamp is constructed with a heavy, cast-pewter columnar body and a wide, deep drip-pan base designed to catch overflow from the diagonal wick spout.

This specific form, often referred to as a "Kyrie" or "Pancake" style lamp, represents the transition from primitive fat lamps to more sophisticated early oil lighting. It retains its original wick pick and brass suspension chain, which were essential for managing the flame. The underside of the base features a remarkably crisp struck touchmark: a heraldic shield with a key above the date "1680," identifying it as high-quality Bremen pewter.

Item Specifications

• Object Type: Spout Lamp / Early Oil Lamp

• Material: Fine Pewter (High tin content), Brass Chain

• Origin: Bremen, Germany (Continental Europe)

• Date of Manufacture: Circa 1750 (Marked 1680 for Guild/Master Year

• Hallmark: St. Peter’s Key in Shield over "1680"

• Keywords: Bremen, 1680, St. Peter's Key, Master Mark, Spout Lamp, Whale Oil, Tallow, Primitive, 18th Century.

Condition Report

Excellent Antique Quality. The pewter has a wonderful, unpolished "dark silver" patina with light oxidation (calcium spots) consistent with its 250-year age. No holes, "pewter rot," or structural repairs. The spout is clear, and the base is stable. The wick pick is intact and original to the piece. See pictures for minor bend to base.

Scholarly Reference for Citation

Reference: Die Deutschen Zinngießer und ihre Marken (The German Pewterers and Their Marks)

Author: Erwin Hintze

Note: Hintze identifies the "Key in Shield" as the town mark of Bremen. See Volume 5 (North German Pewterers) for variations of the Bremen key mark used throughout the 17th and 18th centuries.

Item dimensions: 8.25 in tall × 5.5 in wide × 5.5 in deep  

Weight of item only: 14.1 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.