Antique Brass Whale Oil Lamp

This is believed to date back to the mid-1800s when whale oil lamps were popular for longer lasting light, only to be replaced by candles in the later 1800s. We believe it to be of American origin although it also could be Dutch.
 
It is designed to be hung on a wall from a decorative patch behind the cup (the back of the lamp is flat) or stand independently with a wide flat weighted base. It has no markings or hallmarks. 
 
The spout would house a wound cloth wick reaching into the oil cup. The cup could easily be lifted out of the holder as shown in photos. The lid and wick spout kept the oil from leaking and protected it from insects and other debris. They can be used today with olive oil or vegetable oil.
 
Ours has some discoloration as shown in photos, especially bad around the slot holding the cup spout in place, and a dent and discoloration in the base.
 
H 11 ½” x L 4 ¼” x W 5 ½”
1 lb 4.5 oz
 
Disclaimer: We have tried to make sure colors shown in photos are representative of the real colors of each item. We have tried to identify all imperfections in descriptions, but we may have missed some. If you are unhappy with your purchase, let us know.