A rare, surviving example amongst humanity's earliest lighting technology. This singular-pinch with concave basin design has seen examples dating back to 1500 B.C.E. However, it is the Greek's who are accredited with mass-production for export to the Mediterranean, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Levant around 500 B.C.E. 

This device was used to measure a length of time; The oil is filled into the bulb and the lamp is lit. As the lamp burns, the oil temperature inside the lamp will arise until evaporation is measurable. You are then able to roughly & relatively gauge the amount of time that has elapsed.

Also called “lacemaker lamps” as their focused beam of light was useful for detailed, intricate work. Double glass lenses concentrate the light while reducing flickering. Using 2 wicks in close proximity allows for a brighter flame & cleaner burn—a phenomenon attributed to Benjamin Franklin. The shades above the lenses help direct the light downward, making it easier to focus on the task at hand.

Featured in the Museum of Fine Arts Houston.

Featured in the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society.

This device would have been used alone or to enhance the effectiveness of a microscope.  Candle provides focused light on a direct object to be magnified through the rotating glass lens and/or sphere. Since microscopes of the day were reliant on reflective mirrors to focus external light sources, a piece such as this would act as a bench condenser lens allowing one to focus light through their microscopes reflective mirror for additional effect.

Functional piece of Hollywood Americana-Hi-Lite Spotlight by W. Beattie was created for cinema & theatrical productions in Los Angeles, circa 1910-1920. Very early model. Scarce black enameling with red pinstripe accents. Height & angle can be adjusted, side-plate opens for access to light bulb. Original wheels, exterior, paint, and lens- Professionally-restored wiring. Great condition.