Oil lamp - Bone - Primitive Blubber Burner
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Antique bone oil lamp (Primitive Blubber Burner) from ca. 1800–1850, carved from dense mammal bone with a dark espresso patina, 14 cm high, 15.5 cm wide and 8.5 cm deep, weighing 560 g, in good working condition.
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Description from the seller
A Folk Art Primitive Bone Oil Lamp / Blubber Burner
Europe or North-America - 19th century (or earlier)
Carved from a dense mammal bone. The artisan expertly utilized the organic anatomy of a large bovid joint bone, turning its natural deep contours into an efficient oil reservoir. The protruding edge features a precisely hollowed-out channel meant to feed and support a burning wick.
The bone has acquired a magnificent, deep espresso-colored patina from decades of authentic working use. Over generations of burning animal fats, blubber, or tallow, the dense, porous cancellous (trabecular) bone structure absorbed the oils and soot. This organic process naturally cured, darkened, and sealed the surface. This dark, rich coloration provides absolute proof of age and genuine historical utility, differentiating it from modern reproductions
The artifact is in excellent antique condition. The bone remains structurally sound and heavy, showing no modern alterations, brittle structural cracks, or significant fractures.
Height = 14 cm
Weight = 560 g
In good condition. Normal traces of age and use.
For a good impression, please watch all photos carefully.
Insured shipping.
Can also be collected in Ghent, Belgium.
A Folk Art Primitive Bone Oil Lamp / Blubber Burner
Europe or North-America - 19th century (or earlier)
Carved from a dense mammal bone. The artisan expertly utilized the organic anatomy of a large bovid joint bone, turning its natural deep contours into an efficient oil reservoir. The protruding edge features a precisely hollowed-out channel meant to feed and support a burning wick.
The bone has acquired a magnificent, deep espresso-colored patina from decades of authentic working use. Over generations of burning animal fats, blubber, or tallow, the dense, porous cancellous (trabecular) bone structure absorbed the oils and soot. This organic process naturally cured, darkened, and sealed the surface. This dark, rich coloration provides absolute proof of age and genuine historical utility, differentiating it from modern reproductions
The artifact is in excellent antique condition. The bone remains structurally sound and heavy, showing no modern alterations, brittle structural cracks, or significant fractures.
Height = 14 cm
Weight = 560 g
In good condition. Normal traces of age and use.
For a good impression, please watch all photos carefully.
Insured shipping.
Can also be collected in Ghent, Belgium.
Details
Era
1400-1900
Title additional information
Primitive Blubber Burner
Material
Bone
Country of origin
Belgium
Style
Antique
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of ageing
In working order
Yes
Height
14 cm
Width
15.5 cm
Depth
8.5 cm
Weight
560 g
Estimated period
1800-1850
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