"Shell Regular" Gasoline Pump Globe, 1948-1959

01

Artifact Overview

Illuminated globes first appeared atop American gasoline pumps in 1912. They evolved over time from simple ball or pill shapes to more elaborate sculptures. Royal Dutch Shell Group used globes in the shape of the company's distinctive pecten shell logo. These globes not only attracted customers, they also provided light for pump attendants working at night.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Globe (Lighting device component)

Date Made

1948-1959

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2018.23.17

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Shell Oil Company.

Material

Glass (Material)

Color

White (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 17 in
Width: 18 in
Length: 5.5 in

Inscriptions

on front and back: SHELL / REGULAR
"Shell Regular" Gasoline Pump Globe, 1948-1959