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Product Description

A very good silver travel or carriage lamp by Thomas Johnson.

As with most English travel and campaign pieces, the design is ingenious, the purpose being to create a completely practical item that will withstand the rigors of travel in nineteenth century conditions.

To our knowledge Thomas Johnson was the only silversmith to produce this design although similar examples are known by Miller and Sons in brass.

To use this candle lamp, the lid is lifted, and the doors opened to reveal the candle encased in a silver shaft that doubles as an extension stand. The base can be extended down and secured by a bayonet fitting for stability.

Beneath the doors and heat grill is positioned a vesta case and the underside of the base is serrated so matches may be struck to light the candles.

The base unscrews so the candle may be inserted and the candle, as it burns, is continually raised by a spring action.

To add to the lamp’s utility, the lid contains a hinged double hook, and a further hinged double hook is concealed in the back so that the lamp may be hung within a tent of carriage.

The top of the lamp is engraved “P. Hambro 2 Grosvenor Gate.” The Hambro family were prominent bankers in the 19th century living at one of the most prestigious addresses in London.

London, England 1862