SHIP OIL LAMP - ODDITIES

Rare 18th century ship's oil lamp in wrought iron, with three hoops, gimbal interiors.

This example is rare because it has a three-axis structure, meaning it can rotate in three planes and keep the flame vertical as the ship rolls through the waves. Oddities collection

Beautiful original patina. In a perfect state.
Functional, just use oil and a wick.

PERIOD : 18th century
SIZE : 21cm
SIZE : 8.2"

Fire was the most dangerous thing to have on board a ship, but it was necessary for lighting. Whale oil was the preferred fuel for lamps on board ships. When tilted, as ships are wont to do, the lamps could go out or, even worse, cause a fire. This gimbal lamp could rotate with the roll of the ship, attached by rods to its exterior support, itself suspended from the ceiling.