51/1220

This is a water-tight metal wall lantern. It is triangular in shape with two glass windows and a round hole in the cover for ventilation. It would be lit with a small oil lamp. Lanterns like this were fixed at entrance gates, lodges and stables. It is said to have been used in Westminster as part of the illuminations to celebrate the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.

1 lantern: metal (japaned iron); good condition

MERL 'Catalogue index' card – 'Metal wall lanterns did not become common until the late 18th century. They were fixed at entrance gates, lodges or stables, and consisted of two or three glass panels set in a water-tight frame and enclosing a candle or small oil lamp. // This lantern is triangular in shape, with two glass panels forming two of the sides, and the rest of the frame made of japanned iron. A small oil lamp provides the light. The top of the lantern is hinged so that it forms a lid, and it has a round hole and cover in it for ventilation. // It is said to have been used in one of the first floor windows of Messrs. John Broadwood and Sons, 33, Great Pulkney Street, London, for the illuminations to celebrate the Battle of Waterloo. // The lantern measures 7.75 inches in height.', Victoria & Albert Museum No. M251, 1925.

1800-01-01 - 1824-12-31

Early-nineteenth century

John Broadwood and sons (Agent)