lantern

Manufacturer / MakerCreated by Angle Lamp Company

Date1900

Mediumtin

Dimensions17 3/4 × 8 3/4 × 11 1/2 in. (45.1 × 22.2 × 29.2 cm)

ClassificationsFurnishings

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of Maria Chabot

Object numberPC1995.55.3

DescriptionThis tin lantern is categorized as a double oil lamp, popularized throughout the mid to late nineteenth century. Upon further analysis of the design and construction, this is likely a lantern manufactured by the Angle Lamp Company, established in ca.1892 by Thomas Mara Fell (1829-1896). Gaining notoriety for its ability to direct light downwards, resulting in a lessened undershadow, and providing more illumination due to the double-wick design, it became a popular style of hanging lantern for homes during the latter half of the nineteenth century and into the twentieth century. This lantern features a cylinder, a can-shaped reservoir holder at its center, serving as the base of the lantern. Attached to either side is a thin piece of bent metal, presumably serving as a handle if using the lantern by hand, or a way to display or store it. The exterior surface of the reservoir holder features several lines that contour the form, further enhancing the can-like appearance. The reservoir itself sits inside the holder and appears to be removable, showcasing a similar, cylindrical-like form with a top that slightly tapers off, likely helping in taking it in and out of the holder. A short cylindrical portion protrudes on either side of the reservoir cover, with a wick raiser knob attached to each one. Just above this, the rounded outer wick covers are visible, accompanied by ventilation holes contouring the rounded form, and a small opening for the wick at the top. The top part of the outer wick holder can open up utilizing a hinge mechanism, revealing the inner wick tube, and the wick itself, which is flattened, a design growing in popularity throughout the late eighteenth century to the early nineteenth century, particularly with kerosene lanterns like this one, due to efficient fuel conduction and increased flame stabilization. The bottom of the central reservoir holder features a small concaving section, ending with a rounded, sphere-like finial. Observing the interior of the reservoir holder, the tails of both flattened wicks are visible, likely constructed of natural fibers. Additionally, upon closer inspection, the rounded wick raiser knobs showcase some text, largely illegible, although "Angle" is faintly visible, further illustrating the model and origins of the lantern. Serving as a more accessible light source, kerosene lamps like this one played an instrumental role in pioneering light technology, providing adaptability in position, versatile models, and acting as a symbol of further modernization following the Industrial Revolution.

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