Article by Antique Oil Lamps Collecting
Here's a little history for you. Did you know that the first oil lamp was made during the Stone Age? The lamp could be described as extremely rough; likely make from a hollow out rock. The creator then lined the carved out rock with some moss. Finally, a wick soaked in animal fat was the final touch to this much needed invention; a source of light after dark fall. While this may have been a very useful model during the stone age, we are used to a much different looking oil lamp today; especially as collectors.The antique oil lamps collected in this day and age are prized for not only their cultural value, but also the decorative appeal the provide. There's a strong demand for this specific type of lamp as well as other types of oil lamps such as antique hanging oil lamps, ornate brass, Aladdin oil lamps, and many others. We will focus on 'antique' oil lamps for now.How Are These Lamps Made:The most common antique oil lamps are victorian oil lamps and they are built with a large glass globe on the bottom and a smaller glass globe on top. They are extremely decorative pieces and most of the time you will find that both top and bottom globes sport a variety of flowery designs. When they were constructed; they were made by hand. In spite of the fact that these lamps were made by hand, you will find them available in nearly every imaginable color. The lamps are quite fragile in nature and their often-times frilly, Victorian look, gives ample warning of their need for delicate handling.Collecting Ideas:Antique oil lamps have become so popular in this decade, they are arguably one of the most sought after collectibles. While these lamps were once a necessity for every day life, collectors now seek them out for their ability to cast a beautiful sense of style and warmth in a room. They can be used to accent any room and provide a warm inviting splash of color to the environment. They can also be used in outdoor settings as a unique and clever way to light up the back yard for a night time get-together with the neighborhood. One should consider an antique hanging oil lamp, in this case. These lamps can make an interesting takeoff on a tiki torch if you like; you can find poles that stick in the ground with hooks on top to hang the lamps on.Where They Can Be Found:Antique oil lamps are collectible items now that can be found on more Amazon auctions than you could ever imagine. If you'd like to see them, up close, you can find them at local auctions, estate sales and many antique stores right in your own hometown.What Does An Antique Like This Cost?As you might expect, the prices for antique oil lamps vary rather widely. As a point of reference, I will note that a mint condition, 19th century antique oil lamp will rarely sell for less than 0.00.Many people have made searching for these antique treasures a hobby. Collecting and decorating with antique oil lamps is a great way to both preserve a little history and incorporate a unique antique into your home environment.