Southeast Asia, Burma (Myanmar), ca. mid-20th century CE. This is a lovely nickel-silver and glass oil lamp used for vaporizing opium! The thick base is hollow, acting as the oil reservoir, contains a removable wick, and has an openwork covering and rim- these 2 outer pieces are a lovely foliate and floral pattern with birds perched in branches. The wick and openwork are held in place and protected when not in use by a cap that threads on to the mouth. The detachable glass dome has a faceted surface and annular opening at the top, and rests upon the openwork rim to channel the lamp's heat. The canister lid fits over and screws onto the reservoir base via a threaded rim. This compact size was ideal for travel and this lamp construction was the standard way to channel the perfect heat levels though the glass chimney shade - the opium bowl would be held over the glass with a tiny dose to vaporize for inhalation. Size (just lamp): 3" Diameter x 3.75" H (7.6 cm x 9.5 cm); (in canister): 3" W x 4" H (7.6 cm x 10.2 cm)

Provenance: Whisnant Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA acquired prior to 2000

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#169820

Canister lid is repaired - the end panel is reattached with visible adhesive residue on interior. Small amount of oil residue and liquid still in the reservoir. Glass is intact. Age and use expected wear and soot accumulation. Openwork is detailed and excellent.