West Sea Company

18. Lighting & Lamps

Prices in U.S. Dollars are in GREEN



18.56  COMBINATION BULL’s EYES RUNNING LAMP.  Genuine 19th century American small craft combination running lamp with masthead, port and starboard features in one.  This charming hand-made all brass example is of typical American form with a trapezoidal body housing 3 thick glass bull’s eye lenses.  The port and starboard glasses are red and green respectively and the forward facing masthead light is clear.  The bottom three sides of the lamp have circular aspiration holes.  The cylindrical chimney with double cap has elongated smoke vents topped by a folding ring for carrying.  The back of the lamp has a hinged door with locking pin closure.  The back of the door is fitted with a female mounting bracket affixed with 4 rivets. Opening the door reveals the font and burner within.  The hemispherical parabolic reflector is mounted on the inside of the door to maximize light output.  The circular font mounts in a retaining ring on the bottom of the lamp.  It has a burner marked “SIMPLEX” and a wick advance knob embossed “E. MILLER & CO. MADE IN U.S.A.”  Excellent original condition in all respects showing good age from years of sea service.  549


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18.53   COMBINATION RUNNING LAMP.  Very nice American small craft running light manufactured by the “National Marine Lamp Co.” of New York as embossed on the wick advance knob of the oil burner.  It is further identified on an embossed brass plate on the mounting bracket reading “PATENTED APRIL 1st 1913.”  This handsome sea relic, obviously over 100 years old, is hand-made of solid brass.  It features high quality port and starboard red and blue Freznel lenses which are separated by a removable brass light curtain in the middle.  The mushroom top chimney has charming heart-shaped aspiration vents and is crowned by a folding wire bail handle.  The bottom has a hinged door which protects the burner and font.  The font is spring-loaded and inserts into the bottom of the lamp with a press fit.  As mentioned the back is equipped with a riveted female bracket below which are pine tree aspiration vents.  The lamp stand 10 ½ inches tall inclusive of the loop.  It is 7 ½ inches front to back with the light curtain and just over 5 inches wide.  It is in excellent, untouched original condition throughout.  A very desirable lamp of this type, size and condition over 100 years old!  449

(See item 18.29)


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18.54  PRE- “TITANIC” CABIN LAMP.  Splendid  all brass British cabin lamp of exceptional heft and quality.  This remarkably handsome 5-sided bulkhead lantern is oil-fired and bears the  maker’s mark stamped within an oval on the chimney reading “BULPITT & SONS 1911 BIRMINGHAM.”  The lamp body contains 3 panes of thick glass enclosing its state-of-the-art burner.  The font holds the burner with a hinged mount which reveals a complex  tubular apparatus within.  The front is marked “BULPITT 1914.”  The font and burner are mounted in a track which pulls out from the hinged door on the right closing on a pin lock.  Of particular note is the unusually long wick advance knob extending to the right.  A small sliding door on the exterior of the lamp slides up to expose the knob within.  Using the attached key on brass chain, the wick can be operated without  opening the door!  Another superior feature is the adjustable aspiration vent on the front of the lantern which controlled the amount of air entering the lantern… yet another means of adjusting the flame.  The interior back is fitted with a reflecting mirror to maximize light output.  A substantial cowl in the top directs heat upward to the double-walled chimney.  A hinged cap is provided at the top along with a pivoting bale handle with wooden grip.  The back of the lamp is equipped with an incredibly stout male hanging bracket for mounting.  The lamp itself stands 16 inches tall by 8 inches wide and 5 ¼ inches deep.  It is 20 inches high inclusive of the handle.  Truly amazing condition.  Totally complete and original after more than 110 years of sea service!   849

The Royal Mail steamship S.S. TITANIC, perhaps the most famous shipwreck of all time, met its fate on April 12, 1912, fully a year after this lantern was produced!


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18.51  MASSIVE SHIP’s RUNNING LAMP.  Important, very early 1900’s British ship’s running lamp as carried aboard huge ocean-going liners of that famous era.  This early veteran of the sea is hand-made of  heavy wall copper with thick cast brass fittings.  The applied brass maker’s plate riveted to the front reads:

MAKERS WILLIAM HARVIE & Co, LTD.
(LATE OF GLASGOW)
SHIPS LANTERN & LIGHTING ENG..
BISHOP STREET.
BIRMINGHAM, 5.

This most substantial masthead lamp has a thick clear glass Freznel lens.  The double walled construction of the lamp body is of the highest order.  The original oil font, burner and silvered reflector are intact and functional.  Complete with original crystal glass chimney marked “FIREPROOF” with anchor trade mark.  25 inches tall by 14 inches wide and 12 inches deep, weighing an astonishing 25 pounds!  Outstanding original condition in all respects.  The brass and copper have acquired an original age patina untouched after years of actual service at sea. A better, fully complete example of equal quality is not to be found!   1395

The vessel which carried this impressive running lamp is unknown.  But to be sure, it once served on the likes of  TITANIC, MAURETANIA, and LUSITANIA or one of their sisters from the Golden Age of ocean liners!

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18.52  RARE “BIRD CAGE” LAMP.   Genuine second half 19th century American small craft anchor lamp made in this distinctive style with 6 brass wire ribs protecting the Freznel glass lens.  While unmarked, the maker is definitely American in form and construction.  Entirely hand-made, this all brass lamp was beautifully designed and produced.  It has a classic 360o  Freznel glass lens created to maximize and focus the burner’s lumen output onto the horizon.  The “bird cage” struts protect the all important lens while attaching the upper and lower portions of the lamp together.   They also serve to separate the suspension loop from the top of the hot chimney when in use.  The original oil burner on the font is marked “WEDGE.”  The font secures into the bottom of the lamp with a bayonet twist.  11 3/4 inches tall by 4 3/4 inches in diameter.  Excellent original condition showing actual use at sea.  A very scarce example of this form of marine lantern, particularly prized by collectors.  Easily a $750 value.  Priced to sell!  495 

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18.48  EARLY GLOBE LANTERN.  Spectacular all brass ‘pre-Civil War’ American hurricane lantern by one of America’s earliest lamp makers, as embossed on the oval maker’s tag on the top rim, “Wm PORTER MAKER 232 Water ST N.Y.”  Being a white light of 360 degrees, it would be classified as an “anchor lamp.”  But at the time it was made such a world-wide maritime classification did not exist!  This very impressive nautical lamp was entirely hand-made.  Six hefty brass struts run vertically attached to 3 horizontal grills to form a heavy duty cage.  The cage surrounds the fantastic glass globe and connects the top of the lamp with the bottom.  The globe was hand-blown, exhibiting telltale occlusions and bubbles.  The glass is an impressive ¼  inch or more thick!  The top of the lamp has a mushroom chimney with numerous ventilation holes.  The chimney is flanked by a very stout folding bail handle with pivoting eyelet cast in the form of a rope.  Attached to it are 2 hand-forged brass chain links.  In addition, there are 4 pivoting eyelets on the lamp body for attachment to the ship’s halyards and mast.  The base of the lamp has numerous ventilation holes for aspiration.  Remarkably, this lamp still retains its original whale oil font with its 5 patented burners of the early pick wick type!  The font has a filler hole and 3 spring-loaded retainers which allow it to fit snugly into the bottom of the lamp.  What is significant about this entire presentation is the bottom which is stamped, “H & J SANGSTERS PATENT JUNE 1851.”  The lamp stands 25 inches tall exclusive of the handle and 17 inches in diameter overall.  Including the handle and chain the vertical measurement is 31 inches.  Equally impressive relative to its size is its weight which is 18 pounds!   Fantastic original condition.  The fact that it has lasted 170 years without being electrified or damaged is simply amazing!  This is unquestionably a museum piece.  To lamp collectors it is the holy grail of nautical lamps. SOLD

This lantern holds the earliest documented age of any marine lamp we have offered in our 40+ years.  We have sold hundreds.  It is RARE!

The hot-blast or "tubular lantern" with wick advance knob was invented by John H. Irwin who patented it in 1869.  Prior to that all oil burning lamps required the wick to be manually advanced within the burner using a “pick wick.”

Provenance:  Ex. Northeast Auctions, Portsmouth, New Hampshire.


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18.44   HAND INSPECTION LAMP.   Turn-of-the-last-century all brass oil-fired miniature inspection lantern.  This rare miniature lamp was hand-made by the “E. Miller & Co. U.S.A.” as embossed on the wick advance knob.   It is complete with its original molded clear glass globe housed within a protective 5 strut grill.  The upper portion has a chimney with “mushroom” cap and perforated “pine tree” vents for aspiration.  The upper section can be hinged back allowing the globe to be removed for cleaning.  There is a brass clip on the front which snaps the lamp closed with a tight fit.  A substantial wire bale handle is provided for carrying by hand.  The flared bottom allows the lamp to stand upright when not in use.  The font, with its wedge burner marked “SIMPLEX,” seat neatly into the bottom of the lamp by means of 2 spring-loaded clips.  13 ½  inches high overall.  The lamp body is 9 ¼ inches tall and 4 inches in diameter on the base.  Excellent original cosmetic condition showing real use but no abuse.  295

CAUTION.  This lamp is no longer suited to contain flammable liquids.  For display ONLY.

 

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18.32  ANCHOR LAMP.  Very well preserved turn-of-the-last-century small craft anchor lamp of American manufacture.  This handsome hand-made nautical light is made entirely of brass with a perfect thick Freznel glass lens.  It is complete with the original burner and font which screw into the bottom with a bayonet twist.  Two pivoting eyelets are provided on the bottom section to attach to halyards for display on the mast.  A larger pivoting eyelet is atop the chimney for hoisting.  The double insulated chimney has “pine tree” vents for aspiration.  8 ½ inches tall by 4 ½ inches in diameter.  Outstanding original condition in all respects, retaining a deep, rich age patina acquired from years of sea service.  A very handsome original marine lantern well over 100 years old.  Very reasonably priced.  195

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18.43  AMERICAN GIMBAL LAMPS.  Magnificent matched pair of yacht cabin lamps by the famous Perkins Marine Lamp & Hardware Co., Brooklyn, New York as marked on the gimbal brackets “PERKO.”  These impressive early 1900’s salon lamps are made of highly finished naval brass of the finest quality mounted on equally impressive solid teak backboards.  Noted for its durability and resilience in a marine environment, teak has been used in shipboard construction for centuries.  These oil burning lamps have their snugly fitting fonts within their weighted receptacles slung in gimbals.  A small screw is provided on each suspension arm to lock the gimbal in place when not in use.  The fonts, with their burners, are removable for filling and servicing.  The patented “star pop-up” burners are hinged allowing the crown to tilt back and expose the wicks for trimming.  The wick advance knobs are marked “The Miller Co. Made In U.S.A.”   Both lamps retain their original old cotton wicks.  The burners hold their glass chimneys with a flower-shaped thumb screw which locks them into the “fitters.”  Above each lamp is an especially heavy duty smoke bell of cast brass with adjustable positioning.  The bottoms of each presentation bear this company’s brass trade mark plaque “WS.”  The back of each teak mount has a custom recessed brass hanger which allows the lamp to be hung flush on the bulkhead without fear of coming loose.  The entire presentations measure 16 ¼ inches tall by 8 ¼ inches wide each.  The smoke bells protrude 10 inches from the bulkhead.  The lamps themselves measure 9 inches tall, 15 inches inclusive of the chimneys.  Each unit weighs 8 pounds.  A most desirable early 1900’s pair in virtually mint original condition!  1895/set Special Packaging

As of this writing a major East Coast auction is offering for sale a set billed as a “Substantial Pair of Gimbaled Oil Lamps / Smoke Bells” with a pre-sale estimate of $3,000 - $4,000.   The lamps have replaced chimneys and are not mounted.

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18.47  NAVIGATOR’s LANTERN.  Very unusual, quite scarce late 19th century American hand-held signal lamp.  This rare example was a forerunner of the better known “Boat Signal Lamp” produced in the late 1800’s into the early 20th century.  Hand-made of solid brass it contains an early form “bulls eye” glass lens telling of its older construction.  The cylindrical lantern body has a hinged door pivoting on the right which holds the lens and closes on the left with a spring-loaded latch.  The lens is backed by a rotating light curtain controlled by a  knob on the bottom front.  The interior contains its original oil font with wedge burner as the light source.  In combination, this clever apparatus allowed the navigator to send visual Morse code signals by flashing light.  The back of the lamp is fitted with duel struts for hard mounting to the vessel.  In addition 2 folding wire bail handles are provided for hand-held use.  The base of the lantern has multiple breather holes for aspiration.  The castellated top has a complex double conical chimney for venting.   8 ½ inches tall by 3 inches in diameter and 6 ¼ inches from back to front inclusive of the handles.  Very sturdy!  Excellent original condition throughout in a high polish.  Totally complete.  Due to its age and use in a marine environment for over 100 years, this lantern does exhibit expected dezincification in some areas.  295

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18.41  RUNNING LAMP.  Impressive, turn-of-the-last- century ocean-going steamship’s port running light of British manufacture.  This massive oil lamp is entirely hand-made of solid wall copper with heavy cast brass fittings.  The molded lighthouse-like Freznel lens is thick clear glass in flawless condition.  The front of the lamp bears 4 brass tags.  The top most boldly declares “PORT.“  The next partial tag would have indicated its visibility in nautical miles.  The third is the maker’s tag indicating “R. C. MURRAY & CO., LTD. POLLOCOCKSHAW RD …COW (Glasgow) S1.”  The 4th tag reads “PATENT NO.546575 AND OTHERS PENDING.”  The large chimney has a folding cap allowing inspection of the interior.  A thick brass bale handle is riveted to it for carrying.  A sliding copper “trap door” at the back allows a full view of the interior.  It reveals a removable red glass filter backing the entire lens.  Behind it is the light source which consists of a large oil sump (font) and impressive double wick burner with complex snuffer lever function.  The double wick advance knobs are marked “Sherwoods, Ltd. B’Ham.”  The font has a separate oil filler cap.  For maximum light output the burner is backed by a silvered brass parabolic reflector.  What is amazing is it still retains its original old crystal glass chimney etched with an anchor and the words “HEAT RESISTANT FIRE PROOF – FOREIGN.”  The entire assembly slides in and out on a track which rides above numerous aspiration holes in the bottom of the lamp body.  For mounting to the ship’s side this lamp is fitted with an incredibly stout solid brass hanging bracket attached by 6 rivets.  It is complete with its formidible locking “T” wrench.  Appropriately, some inconspicuous areas of the lamp still bear its original read (port) paint when used at sea.  This huge old veteran of the 7 seas stands 22 inches tall by 15 inches wide and 11 inches deep and weighs an amazing 20 pounds!  It is in a remarkable state of original preservation with absolutely no flaws other than losses to the 2 tags aforementioned.  WAS $1895  NOW! 695 Special Packaging

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18.40  BULLSEYE LAMP.  Very scarce turn-of-the-century American combination navigational running lamp.  This handsome all brass veteran of the sea was hand-made with 3 distinctive “bug eye” lenses incorporating port, starboard and masthead functions all in one.  The trapezoidal body is capped by a mushroom chimney and is decoratively scribed on three sides.  The port and starboard sides have ventilation holes on their bottoms.  The rear of the lamp has a hinged door with sliding pin lock, folding bail handles and a stout riveted bracket for hard mounting to the vessel.  Opening the door reveals the original font and burner embossed “BB & C CO.”  8 ½ inches tall by 6 ¾ inches side and 5 inches front to back.  Outstanding condition in all respects with a deep age patina indicative of its long service at sea.  649

The Bristol Brass & Clock Company was founded by Israel Holmes and Elisha Welch on April 3, 1850 at Foster’s Tavern in Bristol, Connecticut.  The company had a solid beginning.  Holmes was already in the brass business at Scovills since the 1820’s.  Holmes had founded Holmes and Hotchkiss in 1831, one of the first firms to draw brass wire and tubing in the U.S.  He was also  involved in forming the Wolcottville Brass Company in 1833 and the Waterbury Brass Company in 1845.  Homes, Tuttle & Co., which became Bristol Brass, set up other companies including The American Silver Co. and Holmes, Booth & Atwood which became the well known lamp manufactures (P & A) Plume & Atwood.

The Bristol Brass & Clock Company began their burner and lamp business by purchasing the burner shop of George W. Brown & Co. in April 1868.  After oil was discovered in Pennsylvania by Col. Edwin Drake in August 1859, Brown started making lamp burners in 1863.  The burner business was so successful it attracted the attention of Bristol Brass management.  This paved the way for their successful lamp business.  In 1902 the company changed its name to the Bristol Brass Co.  Its successor, Bristol Brass Corp., closed in 1980.

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13.38  SIGNAL LAMP.  Classic 19th century American “BOAT SIGNAL LAMP” as boldly stamped on the front.  This lovely hand lamp is all brass with a round glass bull’s eye front.  The Freznel lens is embossed “GTG Co. Made In U.S.A.”  The front of the lamp hinges open to reveal the internal brass font and its burner with wick advance knob burner.  The font seats securely in its holder.  The front door is secured by a snap fit lever on the side.  The purpose of this lamp was to transmit Morse code by flashing light at night.  To these ends it is equipped with a spring-loaded light curtain which is operated by a sliding knob on the bottom front.   On the back there are 2 folding wire bail handles for carrying and 2 brass clips for mounting.  The top of the lamp has a double castellated chimney to disperse head from the light source.  8 ½ inches tall and 6 inches deep front to back, inclusive of the handles.  The lamp body is 3 ½ inches in diameter.  Good overall, complete condition in a high polish.  SOLD


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18.35  AMERICAN ANCHOR LAMP.  Authentic early 1900’s small craft anchor lamp by the well known lamp and marine hardware maker, Perkins, Brooklyn, New York as impressed on the bottom of the font “PERKO.”  This diminutive all brass lantern is hand-made with its perfect heavy Freznel glass lens.  The upper and lower portions of the lamp are supported on 4 thick brass struts with also serve to protect the 360o lens.  The American style chimney has the characteristic “pine tree” vents and a folding bail handle for hanging.  The bottom has numerous round vent holes for aspiration and is equipped with 2 bale loops for attachment to halyards.  The font with burner secures into the bottom of the lamp with a bayonet twist.  9 inches tall exclusive of the loop and 4 ½ inches in diameter.  Excellent original condition exhibiting a deep age patina with slight verdigris from years of service in a marine environment. SOLD

Frederick Persky, a Russian immigrant, schooled in Germany as a machinist, came to the United States in 1890.  He soon found work at the Bliss Company in Brooklyn, New York.  In the very early 1900's he and a partner began their own business, F. Persky & Company, Lantern Manufacturer, out of his house.

In 1907, Frederick's son Louis joined him in the business, and together they enlarged the product line and their manufacturing facilities.  By 1912, under the name of Perkins Marine Lamp Corporation, they were manufacturing a wide range of lanterns and marine products.  The company name was changed to Perkins Marine Lamp and Hardware Corporation, better known as “PERKO,” in 1932 to reflect the growing line of products which it offered.   Five generations later, PERKO is still a privately owned, family owned corporation, now operating out of Miami, Florida since 1960.


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18.31  PORT & STARBOARD RUNNING LAMP.  Extra nice 19th century American combination port and starboard running lamp.  This handsome veteran of the sea is all brass with hand-finished details.  The red and green glass lenses are of the Freznel type and are in perfect condition.  This oil-fired lamp is well aspirated with a series of 12 air inlets on the rectangular back, 12 heart-shaped outlets in the chimney as well as a series of small openings in the very top.  It is equipped with its original font and burner.  The font screws into the bottom with a bayonet twist.  The burner is the classic wedge-type, embossed "SIMPLEX" and the wick advance knob is embossed "E. MILLER CO., Made In U.S.A."  The rear of the lamp has a shoe attached with 6 rivets for mounting to the ship.  The classic "mushroom" chimney had a folding suspension ring for hanging.  Of special note it the fact that this lamp still retains its original light curtain divider which slides into a track on the front of the lamp.  9 ¼ inches tall exclusive of the ring   11 inches with ring.  5 1/8 inches in diameter.  8 inches deep with curtain.  Remarkably well- preserved condition for a marine object of this type well over 100 years old.  The brass surfaces have acquired a very lovely statuary bronze age patina, yet still retain their luster.  Such lamps  simply don't come any nicer!  549

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18.29  AMERICAN RUNNING LAMP.  Genuine early 1900's combination port and starboard running lamp for a small craft.  This little veteran of the sea is hand-made of all brass.  It features thick red and blue Freznel glass lenses each representing an arc of 12 points of the compass or 135 degrees each.  In addition this lamp has its original removable light curtain to further delineate the light's output.  The light source is a small oil font and burner which fits into the bottom with a spring-loaded press fit.  The burner is of the non-aspirated "wedge" type.  The wick advance knob is embossed "H. LOVELL & CO."  Of added value is the fact that the lamp body retains its original hinged bottom cover.  The back has 4 "pine tree" inlet vents at the bottom and the riveted mounting bracket embossed "PATENTED APRIL 1st 1913."  The bulbous chimney has numerous heart-shaped vents and a folding bail handle for carrying.  The lamp body is 9 1/4 inches tall by 5 inches wide.  It is 11  inches tall overall, inclusive of the handle.  It measures 7 ½ inches front to back with the light curtain.  Outstanding condition in every respect showing actual use but no abuse.  The lenses are perfect.  425

The Lovell Manufacturing Company was founded by F. H. Lovell in Arlington, New Jersey around the time of the Civil War.  It came to be known primarily as a maker of marine lamps.  The Lovell Company acquired the Dressel Railway Lamp Works in the 1920's while continuing to use the Dressel name in marketing.  Eventually the firm's name changed to the Lovell-Dressel Company.  In the late 1960's it was absorbed into the Adams & Westlake Company.

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18.22   RUNNING LIGHTS.  Very nice matched pair of port and starboard running lights for a large pleasure craft.  These heavy, solid bronze lights date to pre-World War II.  The thick red and green Freznel glass lenses are embossed "PERKINS SIDE MOULD No. 3" and the lamp bodies are each marked "PERKO" in 2 places and are dated "1934.".  These patented lights have a sleek teardrop design which is very eye catching in an art deco style.  The colorful glass lenses contrast beautifully with the statuary bronze surfaces.  Complete with 12 volt wiring, socket and bulb.  Highly polished, preserved finish.  10 ¼ inches long by 5 inches high and 3 inches thick.  With a few very minor flaws in the glass, these lovely lights must be rated as being in excellentoriginal condition.  Cheap!  395/pair


Frederick Persky, a Russian immigrant, schooled in Germany as a machinist, came to the United States in 1890 and soon found work at the Bliss Company in Brooklyn, New York.  In the early 1900's he and a partner began their own business out of his house, called, F. Persky & Company, Lantern Manufacturer.
In 1907, Frederick's son Louis joined him in the business, and together they enlarged the product line and their manufacturing facilities. By 1912, then under the name of Perkins Marine Lamp Corporation, they were manufacturing a wide range of lanterns and marine products.  Five generations later, PERKO is still a privately owned, family operated corporation, operating out of Miami, Florida in 1960.



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18.26  CHRIS CRAFT RUNNING LIGHTS.   A simply amazing matched pair of port and starboard running lights from a large, early pleasure craft.  These heavy lights are constructed of thick solid cast brass in a super high luster finish.  Each has a thick ribbed Freznel lens with the source of elimination being a 12 watt bulb.  Originally these light were nickel-plated.  The interiors still exhibit that fact.  The lovely form of these lights is classic Art Deco indicative of their 1930's construction.  12 inches long by 7 ¼ inches high and 4 inches thick.  Each light weighs an impressive 14 pounds!  Outstanding original condition.  Easily re-electrified for a spectacular look!  Best set of its type we have ever offered.  975


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18.25  MASTHEAD LIGHT.  Miniature all brass American-made small craft running light.  This early 1900's ship's light has a Freznel lens with an arc of 225o embossed "PERKO 225" on one side.  Telling of its early manufacture, the glass has a purple tinge indicative of its manganese content as used in glass making at the turn-of-the-century.  The bottom of the light is open for inserting a bulb and the back has 2 holes on each side for mounting to the ship's superstructure.  5 inches tall by 4 ½ inches wide.  Excellent original condition in a high, lacquered polish.  The glass lens is perfect.  This would make a charming porch light or nautical theme interior light.  Try finding any contemporary 'cheap' light made in China for this price!  This  is antique solid brass antique with a sea history.  95


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18.45  RARE SHIP's ONION LAMP.   Lovely, Civil War era ship's globe lantern or "onion lamp" from the days of sail.  This American lamp is all copper with its original blown glass globe.  Entirely hand-made, it exhibits neat riveted and soldered joints, punched cruciform vents and a castellated top.  The top and bottom of the lamp are connected by 5 stout copper supports which double as guards encircled by an equally heavy equatorial ring.  The top of the lamp hinges open and there was a provision for a hasp.  The blade is present but the flap is not.   This lamp is complete with its brass font and burner which press in from the bottom and are held with a bayonet twist.  The very unusual burner is highly aspirated and the wick advance knob is impressed "HOLMES BOOTH & HAYDEN WATERBURY CONN."   This truly wonderful old lamp measures 15 inches tall (17 1/2 inches overall with the handle) and is 11 inches in diameter   The thick glass globe is wavy with bubbles and inclusions, typical of glass manufactured prior to the Civil War.  One heat crack in the glass does exist which, happily, does not even show from most perspectives.   Lovely form, condition, and age patina with no corrosion.   A very rare example of a nicely preserved early marine lantern, being the biggest and best lamp of its type we have ever offered.  Circa 1860. 795

The manufacturing company of Holmes, Booth & Haydens began in 1853 with the partnership of Hiram W. Hayden, Israel Holmes and John C. Booth in Waterbury, Connecticut. The firm was incorporated on February 2, 1853.  Bothers Henry H. and James A. Hayden were among the partners, hence the plural Haydens in the company name.  The company was engaged in casting, rolling and drawing brass and copper.  They were major players in the manufacture of lamps, burners and trimmings.
Israel Holmes began his metal working business in 1820, having formed many companies that manufactured sheet metal and wire.  Holmes left the firm in 1869 to form Holmes, Booth and Atwood, later named Plume & Atwood.  He died in 1874.

Hiram W. Hayden was a prolific inventor who had nearly 30 lamp and lighting patents.   His other patented inventions include a breech-loading rifle, a breech-loading cannon, a magazine rifle, patents & designs for buttons, medals, and a machine for making solid metal tubing,

Copper, an elemental metal prized for its heat conductivity, malleability and resistance to corrosion, was the premium material used by manufacturers of the earliest marine lighting.

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18.10 EXCEPTIONAL SALON LAMPS.    Rare matched pair of American ship’s cabin lamps in unusually decorative form.  These handsome lamps are all brass retaining their original gilded finish.  The counter weighted fonts hold star-type “pop-up” burners with wick advance knob embossed “E. MILLER CO., U.S.A.”  The complex burners allow the top to tilt back with its chimney for servicing the wick.  A small flower-shaped screw holds the fluted glass chimney securely in place.  The decoratively scalloped fonts are suspended within their ornate gimbal rings.  The gimbals pivot between two elaborate supports with floral trim, each embellished with mascaroon heads.  The bases of the lamps contain heavily weighted cast lead inserts which allow them to remain stable on a flat surface.  But they are also equipped with a hanging bracket in the base so that they can be mounted to the bulkhead perpendicularly.  8 inches tall exclusive of the chimneys.  11 inches tall overall.  The bases measure 4 ¾ inches in diameter and the lamps are 6 5/8 inches wide at the widest.  Overall condition is outstanding and original showing good age.  The action of the gimbal is amazing.  Given the slightest touch it rocks back and forth for minutes!  Most unusual to find a decorative yet functional ship’s lamp of this quality, much less a matched pair!  895 Special Packaging

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18.57  FANCY SHIP’s CABIN LAMP.   Impressive early 1900’s ship’s cabin lamp stamped “Made In Holland” on the hood.  This extra large light is solid brass with 3 beveled glass panels.  Each panel is hand-cut with decorative star bursts.  The interior of the lamp has a corrugated reflector on the back.  The font contains flame-like bulb wired for standard 110V use.  It has a hinged door with sliding pin closure.  The top of the lamp has a folding bail handle with teakwood grip.  The rear of the lamp is reinforced with a copper hanging bracket with riveted  support.  It comes with it original bulkhead mounted clip which fits in the “shoe” allowing the lamp to be removed from its mount for servicing.  17 inches tall exclusive of the handle and 9 ¼ inches wide.  It weighs 10 pounds.  Speaking to its age and authenticity it retains its original old wiring with cloth covering.  Excellent original condition throughout with absolutely no damage.  The surfaces have acquired desirable wear and patina consistent with age.  WAS 869 NOW! 569


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17.27/18.98  OCEAN LINER BUNK LAMPS.  Exceptional matched pair of 1st Class Cabin bunk lamps retrieved from an English passenger liner during the Golden Age of liner travel. These classic Art Deco lamps are pleasingly cast in “tear drop” form in solid bronze!  The extremely heavy bodies house the thick ribbed Fresnel glass lenses which focused the light for the reader.  The tops and bottoms of the lamp bodies are vented to prevent overheating. Each is professionally wired for standard 110v American service. The old fashioned style toggle switches are brand new, UL approved, ready for hook-up.  These lamps will accommodate a 60W or smaller incandescent or similar size LED bulb. 7 ¾ inches high by 5 3/8 inches wide and 4 ¼ inches deep, weighing an amazing 6 1/2 pounds each!  Pristine original condition with an old high luster polish. Ready to use. Circa 1930. 595/pr

Contemporary lighting fixtures are very expensive, as anyone who has recently visited a high end hardware or lamp store can attest.  Here we have a genuine antique set of finest quality ship’s lamps about 80 years old, offered for far less than equivalent modern repros of inferior quality, which these days are typically made in China!  A lightweight “tinny” porch lamp was recently advertised in “Home and Garden” magazine for $295.  The lamps offered here are the real deal!


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18.36   GLOBE LANTERN.  Early 1900’s ship’s hurricane warning lamp with a large ruby red  globe.  This fine American-made lamp is constructed of galvanized steel with brass fittings.  The heavy wire cage serves to hold the top and bottom of the lamp together while protecting the precious globe.  The top is equipped with a large brass suspension loop for hanging and the sides have brass eyelets for securing is a seaway.  It is complete with its original all brass spring-loaded “pop-up” font and burner.  The wick advance knob is marked “P & A MFG CO. Waterbury Conn, Made In U.S.A.”  This handsome veteran of the sea is in its original red paint which has acquired a nice old weathered look.  The lovely glass globe is in perfect condition. 595  

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18.61  FIGURAL TABLE LAMPS.  Matched pair of 19th century American portable table lamps.  These all brass oil lamps have a circular base supporting a bulbous brass column on which is mounted the oil font with burner and chimney holder.  The circular wick advance knobs are signed “STERN BRO’S N.Y.” and “THE P.&A. MFG Co VICTOR” respectively.  What makes these lamps really outstanding are their figural brass dolphin handles. They stand 9 inches tall and 5 ½ inches in diameter at the base, 6 inches wide overall.  Excellent original condition showing expected signs of use and a nice statuary bronze age patina. Circa 1875.  895/pr

Stern Brothers was founded in 1867 by Issac, Louis and Benjamin Stern, sons of German immigrants. In 1867 they began selling dry goods in Buffalo, New York. The following year they moved to New York City and opened a store at 367 Sixth Avenue. In 1877 the business moved to 110 West 23rd Street. Outgrowing that facility, the Sterns erected a new building on the same site in 1878. The elegant store was noted for its fashionable clothes and other high end goods. Ladies from all over the country came to Stern Brothers for their Paris fashions. The enterprise was distinguished by its elegant door men in top hats and impeccable service.

“P & A,” Plume & Atwood, was organized in January 1869 as HBA (Holmes, Booth and Atwood) with the name changing to the Plume and Atwood Manufacturing Company in 1871. The company was incorporated in 1880. Plume & Atwood produced a full line of kerosene lamps and associated oil burning equipment. Between 1871 and 1912 the company had 62 lighting patents thanks primarily to the company’s namesake, Lewis J. Atwood, who was a prolific inventor. While Plume & Atwood manufactured and marketed their own line of lamps, they also produced and supplied fittings to other lamp manufactures, in this case Stern Brothers of New York.


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18.94  FIGURAL GIMBAL LAMP.  Very rare, ship’s cabin lamp with the desirable aspect of being decorative as well as functional.  This handsome lantern is of English manufacture and is all brass construction.  It features a removable oil sump (reservoir) within a weighted brass body slung in gimbals.  The body of the lamp is nicely tapered, ending in a heavy solid sphere at the bottom.  The top is fitted with a classic pop-up “star” burner with wick advance knob impressed ”SHERWOODS LTD. B’HAM.”  This type of burner tilts back on a hinge to expose the wick for servicing.  It threads into the font with a positive fit and holds the crystal chimney by means of a small, knurled set screw.  The font (sump) fits nicely within the lamp body which seats snugly in the gimbal ring supported by the unique brass bracket in the form of a stylized dolphin.  The fine detail in the casting of the dolphin bracket and its shell back indicate early manufacture and not some later knock off.  The stout cast brass back has 4 holes for mounting to the bulkhead.  At the bottom of the lamp body is a heavy solid brass sphere which, by its heft, assures the proper balancing of the gimbal in a seaway.  This lamp itself measures 7 ¾ inches high by 5 inches wide at the widest, and protrudes 8 ½ inches from the bulkhead.  The entire assembly measures 12 inches high inclusive of the hand-blown crystal chimney.  Extra nice original condition with absolutely no material flaws.  The original lacquer shows wear in several locations and the surfaces have acquired a good patina evidencing years of actual use at sea.  A real rarity in marine lamps.  Only the second such example we have offered in our 38 years!  585


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18.93    RARE FIGURAL SHIP’s CABIN LAMP.   Genuine second half 19th century ship’s cabin lamp  having the very desirable aspect of a detailed cast brass dolphin bracket.  Few ship’s lamps exhibit such a decorative feature, indicating this lamp must have come from an important cabin.  The heavily-weighted lamp body has a lovely flower form solid brass counter weight at the bottom and its original font and burner.  The burner is complete with its functional wick advance knob embossed with a pointed star.  The highly detailed dolphin bracket is very finely cast, abutting in an equally fine scallop shell mount.   Of great significance is the fact that the mount is accompanied by its removable mounting bracket and original mahogany back.  The dolphin bracket slips into slots on the backing with a positive fit, which, at the same time, is easily removed.  This exceptional offering is complete with its flawless hand-blown crystal glass chimney.  The all brass lamp body measures 6 ¼ inches tall from the burner to the base.  The dolphin bracket extends 7 ½ inches from the bulkhead.  The wooden mounting back is 3 by 6 inches.   The entire assembly stands 13 ½ inches tall with chimney.   Excellent original condition with a lovely statuary bronze age patina.  The melding of artistry and function is rarely found in all but the most desirable maritime applications.  This charming example is one of those scarce exceptions.  Circa 1880. SOLD


From our own collection, found in Northern Scotland  in the 1990’s.



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18.92 EARLY E.O.T. SIDELIGHTS.  Very, very scarce matched pair of 19th century oil lamps used to illuminate an early steamship’s bridge engine order telegraph.  These all brass lamps are hand-made and contain their early fonts and burners.  One is a whale oil type from the 1860’s and the other with wick advance knob is marked “Miller, U.S.A.”  The lamps are otherwise identical with a curved shape to fit on the telegraph and even curved glass!  The tops have charming hemispherical chimneys and the sides have a hinged door with press fit locking latch.  The bodies of the lamps themselves measure 8 5/8 inches.  The curved mounting plates are 7 ½ inches by 3 ½ inches wide.  Outstanding original condition with a fantastic original age patina exemplary of their 150 years.  389 /pair

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18.91  AMERICAN BINNACLE SIDE LIGHT.  Extra, extra nice19th century American binnacle side lamp of superior quality.  This all brass lamp was hand-made in an unusual rectangular form, since most binnacle lamps were round or semi-circular.  Even more unusual is its rectangular chimney with arched top and perforated sides.  Access to the interior is gained by a very clever door hinged at the top and locking on the bottom with a complex spring-loaded latch.  The original font and burner are retained within a sliding track on the bottom.  The font easily slides in and out by means of the small pivoting ring on its side.  The wedge-type burner is embossed “SIMPLEX” and the wick advance knob is marked “E. MILLER & CO. Made In U.S.A.”  Speaking to the quality of its construction the lamp has air boxes on either side of the font which open to small aspiration holes on the exterior.  The front of the lamp retains its original old wavy glass in perfect condition.  The front sides of the lamp have “wings” which would have slid into tracks mounted to the side of a binnacle.  Alternatively, the lamp could have been mounted to the side of an early wooden boat binnacle, attached by screws, three on each side of the wings.   6 ¾ inches tall by 4 ¾ inches wide and 2 ½ inches thick.  Outstanding original condition with a lovely statuary bronze age patina. For the connoisseur of marine lighting, this example represents the best of the best of its genre.  We have never seen better.  289

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18.86  LIGHT CURTAIN LANTERN.  Unbelievable!  This is an extremely rare late 1800’s or at the latest, pre-1910 British ship’s lamp with the unusual feature of being able to be darkened without dousing the light source – in this case a single candle!  This massive ship’s light is constructed of thick sheet copper with heavy cast brass fittings.  The quality and heft of this lamp really defy description, the likes of which few familiar with marine lighting have encountered before!  The upper body of the lamp bears the embossed oval brass maker’s tag reading “BINKO RIDSDALE CO., LONDON.”   Other makers of similar but smaller lamps were Bulpitt & Sons and Eli Griffiths & Sons, both of Birmingham, England.  The maker was located in the heart of the London ships’ manufactory on 54 & 120 Minories.  The thick, massive magnifying lens is set into a tinned copper frame.  Below, a brass lever connected to an internal shield allows the light source to be completely covered.  There is a locking lever at the top to maintin the curtain in place.  On the reverse is the hemispherical hinged door with sliding pin closure.  It has a stout built-in parabolic mirror which doubles as a stiffener.  Inside are the remnants of a brass candle holder with bayonet twist-off cap.  It would have been spring-loaded to push a nearly 2 inch diameter candle up to the top as it was consumed.   The top of the lamp is equipped with a large aspirated chimney held by stout brass brackets and a pivoting brass hanger with securing pin on a chain.  This huge relic of the late 19th century stands 29 inches tall by 10 ½ inches in diameter and weighs a hefty 25 pounds.  As rare as they come! SOLD

Given extensive research on-line and in books pertaining to early lighting, it is still uncertain why the British chose to manufacture such behemoths producing a mere single candle power!  But the innovative light curtain did allow the user the convenience of “turning off” the light without blowing out source.   The timeframe of such light curtain lamps appears to have been in the 20 year period between 1890 and 1915 leading up to the Great War.  Subsequent to that time, scarce war resources were no longer available to produce such extravagant devices, additionally spurred by the advance of electric lighting.  As such, this relic comes from a narrow window in time, of which very few examples survive – especially one in nearly pristine original condition!  This is a true museum piece. 



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18.77  HUGE SHIP’s MASTHEAD LAMP.   Very impressive all copper and brass German ship’s masthead lamp from the turn-of-the-last-century.  This extra large ocean-going navigational light retains its beautiful molded Freznel glass lens marked with 3 “G”s within a triangle.  The top front of the lamp bears the embossed brass tag reading “TOPLICHT.”  The lamp body is made of heavy riveted copper.  There are 4 cast brass brackets, 2 on each side, which supported the lamp on rods affixed to the top of the ship’s superstructure or mast.  A large copper bail handle is attached to the top for carrying.  That top is also equipped with a hinged, castellated chimney cap to disperse heat and to provide an opening from which to inspect the burner within.  To those ends the lamp is complete with a large copper oil sump (font) mounted on a slide-in tray.  The sump has a threaded brass oil filler cap and a support for its parabolic reflector.  The complex burner is of the finest typed with dual wicks, dual wick advance knobs and built-in snuffer.  It is complete with its beautiful and original crystal chimney marked “ANCHOR BRAND FIRE PROOF” with anchor emblem.  Access is gained through the back by means of the hinged copper door with sliding pin closure.  This massive old ship’s lantern stands 21 ¼ inches tall exclusive of the bail handle, 12 ¾ inches wide at the widest by 10 ½ inches deep and weighs an impressive 16 pounds!  Outstanding condition with no dents, dings or losses and a lovely old age patina.  The Freznel lens is perfect.   895  

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