{"product_id":"rare-antique-bullseye-lantern-19th-century-police-signal-hand-lantern","title":"Rare Antique Bullseye Lantern – 19th Century Police \u0026 Signal Hand Lantern","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e\na {\n    text-decoration: none;\n    color: #464feb;\n}\ntr th, tr td {\n    border: 1px solid #e6e6e6;\n}\ntr th {\n    background-color: #f5f5f5;\n}\n\u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery rare antique hand lantern, police lantern or signal lantern, likely dating from the late 19th century. This type of lantern is also commonly known as a bullseye lantern.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLanterns of this model were widely used by the police and other authorities and can be considered an early predecessor of the flashlight. They were produced in versions with an oil reservoir as well as with a candle holder. This particular example is fitted for use with a candle, a version that is far less common than the oil-burning types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very small model, which suggests it may have been used as a pocket or hand lantern. On the back, hand grips are present, along with a mounting bracket that may have been used for wearing the lantern on a belt. A particularly interesting feature is the sliding shutter on the front, which allowed the light to be switched on and off, making it highly practical for signalling and inspection purposes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe lantern has a warm brownish surface tone known as Japanese tinning, a finish that was commonly used in the late 19th century. At the top, several small holes are visible. These are likely not original and may have been added later, possibly to improve airflow, as the flame tends to extinguish when the lantern is placed down due to a lack of oxygen. This lantern was clearly not designed to be used standing upright.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe condition is very nice vintage overall. It shows clear signs of use, which strongly contribute to its character and authenticity. This lantern is a remarkable and highly collectible piece, and a special addition to any collection of antique lighting or historical equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe height excluding the handle is approximately 15 cm, and the width at its narrowest point is about 5 cm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Rare Oil Lamps","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52911600697680,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0918\/6620\/2448\/files\/IMG20260414210108.jpg?v=1776276667","url":"https:\/\/rareoillamps.com\/products\/rare-antique-bullseye-lantern-19th-century-police-signal-hand-lantern","provider":"Rare Oil Lamps","version":"1.0","type":"link"}