Nautical instruments

Hand Flare-up Light with Extinguisher – 19th century

A very rare brass distress signalling lamp with conical extinguisher. The cover with shaped handle enclosing a twine ball on steel shaft. Filled with paraffin the soaked twine could be lit to provide a source of illumination to attract the attention of passing ships.

Catalog: NM.4-35
Date: ca. 1850
H: 33 cm (13 in)
Signed: not signed
Origin: probably English
Condition: in good and working condition, wear consistent with age and use