There are many variations of this double finger oil lamp, made of pressed glass by Ripley & Company in Pittsburgh, PA. This 8″ high lamp has a lovely yellow patina in the oil reservoir from many years of use.
It was not uncommon for oil lamps to snap off at the base. As a result, I have come across many examples over the years with a variety of wood and metal replacement bases.
This wood replacement base was carved in a curious manner.
“Ripley & Co. Patd Jan 7, June 14, Aug 11, 1868” is marked on bottom of the intact base of this lamp.
Photo courtesy of eCRATER
i have collected ripey lamps for years, i have never seen one with a wooden base, it appears to be a repair of a broken lamp. i also noted that the collar has been replaced with a newer style. the yellow on the inside is just old dry oil. there are many variations of the two handled lamp the complete lamp shown is one of the most common.
this type repair is interesting I might consider trying this on the next broken one i find.
thanks for the photos.
I HAVE ONE OF THESE LAMPS THAT WAS CONVERTED TO ELEC. BUT COULD BE CONVERTED BACK. OM THE BASE IT HAS RIPLEY & CO. PAT JULY 14 AUG 11 1865. IT’S HARD TO SEE THE LAST NUMBER BUT LOOKS LIKE A 5. WAS WONDERING WHAT IT’S WORTH
Hi Cathy, Sorry, but I am not an expert on “perfect” examples so I have no way of knowing what your lamp is worth. Try contacting a local antiques shop or auction in your area. Or look online for other examples. Good luck! Andrew