Argand Lamp
Datec. 1820
Mediumgilt bronze, brass, and cut glass
Dimensions23 × 13 × 5 1/2 inches (58.4 × 33 × 14 cm)
MarkingsInscribed: J & I COX NEW YORK
Credit LineGift of Fenton L. B. Brown.
Object number1981.18.1
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis set of three glass and ormulu garniture de cheminée argand lamps is on permanent display on a mantel of the Telfair house dining room. The superior quality of the garniture is evident in the beauty and sharpness of the cut-glass oil font and base and the sculptural quality of the cast-bronze foliate scrolls on the candle arms. When lit, the cut-glass prisms cast their reflections throughout the room. The chimney also reflects the light of the flame and increases the brightness.
The argand burner was first patented in 1780 by Aimé Argand, a Swiss physicist and chemist. The argand lamp design, combined with the newer, patented burning fluids produced brighter light than the earlier whale oil lamps.
