Fish Oil Chandelier, Patented 1836

01

Artifact Overview

Alonzo Platt patented the "Union Lamp" in 1836. It received its name from the "union" of the three oil fonts at the mouth of each fish. The even spacing between reservoirs and their peculiar shape produce a vivid, even and unobstructed light. A rare example, it was likely hung in a parlor or dining room.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Chandelier (Hanging light)

Date Made

1836

Place of Creation

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

65.26.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Pewter (Tin alloy)
Tin (Metal)

Dimensions

Height: 22 in
Width: 22 in
Length: 18.5 in

02

Related Content

  • A beige sign with the text "the time is always ripe to do the right thing" -Martin Luther King, Jr.
    article

    Exploring the Origins of Idioms

      Idioms are a fascinating part of language. Explore the origins of idioms through objects in The Henry Ford's collection in this insightful blog post.
    • Vapor Lamp
      article

      My En-light-ening Internship at The Henry Ford

        Let our summer intern take you behind the scenes on her work with some 7,000 lighting-related objects in our collection.