Victorian Signal Lantern in Copper-Washed Tinplate
Updated August 30, 2026
| Lot number | 118 |
| Category | Antiques & Furniture |
| Auction | Cedars Fine Estate Part 1 |
| Date | September 23, 2026 at 8:05 PM EDT |
| Auction house | Amber Door Estate Sales Inc. |
| Location | Niagara-on-the-Lake |
A single handheld lantern of late 19th or early 20th-century design, commonly identified as a bullseye or dark lantern. The cylindrical body is formed from tinned sheet iron with significant remnants of an original copper-washed or plated finish. It features a large convex bullseye glass lens mounted in a flared circular surround, intended to focus the internal light source into a concentrated beam. The lantern is surmounted by a tiered, fluted heat-venting chimney. On the reverse, the piece is fitted with dual wire-work loop handles and a broad fixed metal belt clip. A hinged side door opens to reveal the interior, containing a detached and loose internal oil burner with dual wick tubes. Indistinct, heavily worn incised marks are present on the base. Dimensions: Height approx. 19 cm (measured from a scale in inches). Condition: The lantern displays a heavy authentic patina with significant loss to the copper finish and areas of surface oxidation and pitting throughout. The fluted chimney shows minor indentations. The glass bullseye lens remains intact with surface grime and minor age-related scratches. The internal burner is detached and loose within the body. Handles and belt clip remain securely attached.
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