Sweet Little Lantern/Chamber Light with Original Horn Windows 

America or England, ca. 1800.

Tinned sheet iron and cow horn. Owing to the scarcity and cost of glass pre-1800, lanterns were often made with windows of cow horn, and were known as lanthorns. This little rare survivor not only has the original horn windows, which were typically lost or broken, but also has a scarce tiny size and handle so it could be carried between rooms, and an outer candlecup, which retains a period candle stub. The conical top is pierced for heat and smoke venting with a foliate design.

Just 8 ¾ inches including the hanging loop. Terrific condition. Provenance: Private midwestern collection from Stephen-Douglas.