Authentic and Special
Candle Lantern
Rich with Character! 

New England, ca. 1800. I was taken by this rarity at first sight!

Most square-wooden frame lanterns (sometimes called barn lanterns) are quite wimpy in comparison to this gutsy survivor of substantial scale.

Highly patinated pine, with tin conical chimney and wavy glass panes that appear original. Also appears to retain [remarkably] its first leather hinges, and wire door closure. A shadow at the bottom of the interior indicates that the removable tin candle cup has been there a very long time and likely original too. The lantern is robust and ready to play, while showing the vestiges of time and frequent use in perhaps barns, sheds, or the country home. There are imperfections and shrinkage cracks, with a cool period tin repair at the top. One glass pane has a small loss area in its extreme upper left.

This lantern embodies both the practical and handmade character of early American lighting devices before the widespread availability of manufactured whale and kerosene lamps. Its weathered surfaces and originality amplify its appeal for collectors of early American lighting and country furnishings.

Note the scale: Overall height to the top of the tin hanger is about 21 inches/19 to the top of the tin cone. The wood frame is 13 ¾ inches high x 9 5/8 deep x 7 ¾ wide (rectangular). It has a strong vertical lift that was so prominent in early American furniture. It sits solidly on a surface or may be hung.