Vintage Rayo Pony No. 21 Lantern

Details

Description

Presented is a vintage Rayo Pony No. 21 lantern, from the early 20th century. This metal and glass lantern was … Read more Presented is a vintage Rayo Pony No. 21 lantern, from the early 20th century. This metal and glass lantern was manufactured by Standard Oil for their Rayo line of lanterns and lamps. Burning kerosene as fuel, this lamp would have been clamped to the side of a horse-drawn buggy or carriage. This lantern features a side-mounted clip, as well as a top handle. Behind the glass is a mounted red rear lens.

Kerosene was an innovation of Abraham Gesner, who distilled coal in 1846 to produce a clear liquid. The liquid produced a bright flame when used to power a traditional oil lamp. He called his new fuel kerosene after the Greek word “keroselaion.” Within the decade, it was discovered that kerosene could be extracted from petroleum making the production as a fuel more viable and sustainable commercially. Kerosene lamps and lanterns were used throughout the 19th century and into the early 20th century.

CONDITION:

Good condition overall, considering age and past use. Clear glass with metal wire cage and metal tank. Red rear lens. Side-mounted clip. Stamped "Rayo" on left and "Pony No. 21" on right of tank. Top is loose. Tarnish and rust from age. Stamped "Pat Aug 1 1911" on back. Sold as décor item, it has not been tested. See less