Lard Lamp, 1842-1860
Add to SetSummary
Tin-plated iron, commonly called "tin," was the dominant material for utilitarian items in 19th-century America. It was lightweight, inexpensive, easy to clean, non-toxic, and durable. Tinware also resisted corrosion and had a pleasing silvery appearance that could be enhanced through decoration. Middle-class Americans happily purchased tinware in place of goods made from earlier materials, like wood or pottery.
Tin-plated iron, commonly called "tin," was the dominant material for utilitarian items in 19th-century America. It was lightweight, inexpensive, easy to clean, non-toxic, and durable. Tinware also resisted corrosion and had a pleasing silvery appearance that could be enhanced through decoration. Middle-class Americans happily purchased tinware in place of goods made from earlier materials, like wood or pottery.
Artifact
Lard lamp
Date Made
1842-1860
Creators
Place of Creation
Creator Notes
Patented by Benjamin K. Maltby of Ohio.
On Exhibit
at Greenfield Village in Ford Home
Object ID
00.3.15065
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Tin (Metal)
Color
Gray (Color)
Dimensions
Height: 6.5 in
Diameter: 6.5 in