{"product_id":"rare-antique-bullseye-police-lantern-19th-century-hand-signal-lantern-with-candle-holder","title":"Rare Antique Bullseye Police Lantern – 19th Century Hand Signal Lantern with Candle Holder","description":"\u003cp\u003eRare antique hand lantern, police lantern, and signal lantern, also known as a \u003cstrong\u003eBullseye lantern\u003c\/strong\u003e, most likely dating from the late 19th century. This impressive example still retains a small amount of its original japanned tin finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginally, this lantern would most likely have contained an oil reservoir, as indicated by the opening on the side. The oil insert is no longer present, but underneath there is still a candle holder, allowing the lantern to be used with a candle. Please note that, because of this setup, the flame only remains in the ideal position behind the lens for a limited time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe large convex bullseye lens creates a concentrated beam of light, allowing the lantern to function almost like an early searchlight or flashlight, projecting the light surprisingly far. This is a relatively large model, as many surviving examples are slightly smaller.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the back, the lantern features two handles for carrying, as well as a mounting bracket that could have been used to attach it to another object, possibly a vehicle or belt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese types of lanterns were commonly used by police and security services and can be considered an early predecessor of the modern flashlight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA particularly interesting feature is the front sliding mechanism, allowing the light beam to be opened or closed — effectively switching the lantern “on” and “off.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePresented in beautiful authentic vintage condition with clear signs of age and use, giving it plenty of historical character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA very special addition to any antique lantern, police, or historical equipment collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecifications:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: 17.5 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWidth: 11 × 7 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eType: Bullseye hand lantern \/ police signal lantern\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEstimated production period: Late 19th century\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFuel type: Originally oil, currently fitted with candle holder\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCondition: Used antique condition with authentic age-related wear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect for collectors of antique lanterns, police memorabilia, early flashlights, Victorian equipment, railwayana, and historical lighting.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rare Oil Lamps","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53160576254288,"sku":null,"price":145.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0918\/6620\/2448\/files\/IMG20260618200711.jpg?v=1781809640","url":"https:\/\/rareoillamps.com\/products\/rare-antique-bullseye-police-lantern-19th-century-hand-signal-lantern-with-candle-holder","provider":"Rare Oil Lamps","version":"1.0","type":"link"}