Description
I found this at an antique store and just thought it was an interesting piece that I wanted to know more about. The dealer believed it was an Aladdin but the only markings I can find on it are "MADE IN USA" on the dial. Not sure what kind of metal, but there is rust so it isn't silver. The glass is in perfect condition. And that coil on the top, no idea what it's there for. Hope you can get an idea from the pictures, I know I wasn't much help!
Re: Antique Unidentified Metal Lantern
I collected earlier versions (late 1890s) of this wallmounted lantern. They all share that characteristic, and one other: that mysterious coil around the chimney.
The earlier versions had 1/8" thick metal frames with a maker's name generally on the wall portion on a brass plate.
These were used in Railroad Cars to keep the chimney from falling off the burner.
Lamps of this sort which I have owned had heavy round fonts which held its fuel. The top of the font was usually domed. When placed into a sturdy thick metal band, an overhanging rim of the font supported the lamp in its bracket. The lamps had quite pointed bottoms to prevent them being placed on any surface where they could spill and cause a fire!
Your font appears hand soldered, and may date from the first quarter of the 1900s.
Hoping you find this info helpful ;-)
Twenty years ago, I paid from $99.00 to $135.00 plus tax each for the early ones.
Re: Antique Unidentified Metal Lantern
It missing the wall mounting bracket, But very cool lamp.I havent seen one in a long time..
QuickUse in right on the money.