Details
Description
Up for sale is an exceptional, fully authentic pair of mid-19th-century American pewter whale oil stand lamps crafted by renowned …
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Up for sale is an exceptional, fully authentic pair of mid-19th-century American pewter whale oil stand lamps crafted by renowned pewterer Freeman Porter of Westbrook, Maine (active c. 1835–1860).
This matched pair stands approximately 8.5 inches tall with generous 4.25-inch circular stepped bases. Both lamps feature elegant tulip/urn-form oil fonts mounted on multi-baluster turned stems. Each lamp retains its original drop-in/threaded double-tube whale oil burner assembly complete with original woven wicks intact.
The underside of each base features a crisp, fully legible circular maker's touchmark reading "F. PORTER / WESTBROOK" encircling a central rectangular box die-stamped "No. 1".
Historical Provenance & Design Significance:
Produced during the height of New England's maritime and whaling era, this pair of pewter stand lamps by Freeman Porter showcases the restrained classical proportions of American Antebellum metalwork. Operating out of Westbrook, Maine, between 1835 and 1860, Porter was celebrated for precision lathe-turned baluster forms and high-tin pewter alloys.
Curator's Note:
A striking matched pair of 19th-century American pewter stand lamps with exceptional architectural presence. Featuring subtle baluster-turned stems, warm untouched grey patina, and original dual-tube burners, this pair offers refined primitive elegance for a library hearth, dining credenza, or historic entryway console.
Origin & Age:
Maker: Freeman Porter
Location: Westbrook, Maine, USA
Date: Circa 1835–1860 (Antebellum Period)
Material: Pewter (tin alloy) with brass/tin-plate wick tube assemblies.
Dimensions & Weight:
Height: ~8.5 inches (21.6 cm)
Base Diameter: ~4.25 inches (10.8 cm)
Combined Weight: 712 grams (1 lb 9.1 oz)
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- Dimensions
- 4.25ʺW × 4.25ʺD × 8.5ʺH
- Styles
- Early American
- Rustic
- Period
- Mid 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- United States
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Pewter
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Silver
- Condition Notes
- Very good antique condition relative to age and material softness. The pewter displays a soft, authentic unpolished silvery-grey patina with … moreVery good antique condition relative to age and material softness. The pewter displays a soft, authentic unpolished silvery-grey patina with light surface handling wear, minor surface oxidation, and soft rim contact marks as expected on early pewter. Both bases sit stable and flat. One whale oil burner seems frozen so didn't attempt to remove it. No cracks, major denting, or modern solder repairs detected. less
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Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Cancellation Policy - Prior to shipping or local pickup, buyers may cancel an order for up to 48 hours, unless otherwise specified.