Double Bullseye Pewter Whale Oil Lamp

This double bullseye pewter lamp used whale oil as its fuel. Whale oil lamps were commonly used during the 18th and 19th centuries, as whale blubber produced a desirable oil that burned cleaner and with less odor than tallow or fish oil. These lamps were often referred to as “lacemaker lamps” because their focused beam of light was useful for detailed, intricate work. The double glass lenses helped concentrate the light while also reducing flickering.

This lamp features two wicks, which improve the brightness of the light. Each stem contains its own wick, drawing oil from the central reservoir. Using two wicks in close proximity allows for a brighter flame and cleaner burning—a phenomenon attributed to Benjamin Franklin. With a single wick, soot buildup requires frequent cleaning; however, when two wicks burn together, the hotter combined flame helps burn off carbon deposits, reducing maintenance. While this produces a brighter light, it also causes the whale oil to burn more quickly. The shades above the lenses help direct the light downward, making it easier to focus on the task at hand.

On the top of one of the pewter lenses, the word “PATENT” is stamped. Although it lacks the “R. Gleason” mark on the base, this lamp was produced by Roswell Gleason of Dorchester, Massachusetts. Other models from this manufacturer feature only a single lens.

Featured in the Museum of Fine Arts Houston.

Featured in the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society.

Overall Dimensions: 4.75" x 8.50" x 4.00"

Weight: 2 lb 4.3 oz