Lamp (2) - Brass

Description of the Lamps
• Style: They feature a classic "square-front" design with tiered, vented "chimney" tops to allow heat and smoke from the flame to escape.
• Construction: They are primarily made of japanned tin (black-painted metal) with brass or nickel-plated accents around the glass frames and the top rim.
• Light Source: These were originally oil or candle-powered. The interior reflectors (visible in the first image) were designed to project light forward, while the small red "jewel" lens on the back served as a tail light for safety.
• Mounting: The cylindrical "stem" at the bottom would have slotted into a bracket on the vehicle.
Condition and Damage Assessment
Based on the close-up images, these lamps have seen a fair amount of wear and "patina," which is common for their age:
1. Corrosion and Surface Wear
• Rust (Oxidation): There is significant surface rust, particularly on the tiered chimney tops and the mounting stems. This suggests they were stored in a damp environment. The black finish (japanning) is flaking off in several places, exposing the raw metal underneath.
• Pitting: The rust appears to be "pitting" the metal, meaning it is eating into the surface rather than just sitting on top.
2. Glass and Structural Issues
• Cracks/Chips: In the fourth image, there is a visible "clamshell" chip or crack in the corner of the glass pane. This is a common point of failure caused by vibration or the frame being bent.
• Frame Separation: The metal frames holding the glass show signs of warping. In the corner close-up, the seal between the glass and the metal frame is beginning to separate, which could lead to the glass falling out if handled roughly.