antique glass whale oil lamps, likely dating back to the mid-19th century

The object in the image is an antique glass whale oil lamp, likely dating back to the mid-19th century. Description: This type of lamp is typically made of clear flint glass and features a decorative design, in this case, with heart-shaped motifs. Historical Context: Whale oil lamps were a popular lighting solution from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century, known for their bright and clean-burning flame compared to candles. Origin: Many such lamps were produced by American glass companies, with the Boston & Sandwich Glass Company being a notable maker. Evolution of Lighting: While originally designed for whale oil, many lamps were later converted to use kerosene or electricity as these became more accessible.