Hobbies And Interests
Origin
The very first oil lamps trace as far back as the Paleolithic period. These lamps were little more than containers, such as shells, that could hold flammable oils and a thick, disc-shaped wick for lighting. Oil lamps originally created lots of smoke and vapors which made them unpleasant to sit near. They also shed little light compared to what we are used to with electricity.
Function
During the 18th century, a Swiss chemist invented the concept of the modern oil lamp. The design involved a flat, circular wick with a hollow center. The oil is placed in the base of the lamp, and a cylindrical casing was placed on top of the base. A piece of the wick is placed in the oil, usually through a chamber, and once lit, the wick and mixture of oxygen cause the oil to burn. Oil from whale fat, olive oil, and crude fish oil were all used in the early modern style of oil lamps. Kerosene, petroleum, and paraffin use followed in the 19th century.
Variations
There are many variations to the types of oil lamps. Most variations are due to differences in material. Some lamps are made from brass or aluminum, while others are made of glass. The shape varies as well from lamp to lamp, and largely depends on the intended use. Oil lamps used for decorative purposes as well as function are usually more ornate and have patterns etched into them, as well as stylish globes around the standard glass cylinder. A variety of colored glasses can also make even standard lamps more appealing to the eye.
Dangers
Oil lamps pose a series of dangers. Because of the flammable nature of the oil, they must be used with care. Never light an oil lamp that is partially filled with oil, as the trapped gases can be explosive. Never add oil to a lit oil lamp, and never fill an oil lamp near one that is lit. The various types of oils that are present in oil lamps, such as kerosene or paraffin, are very toxic and should be kept out of the reach of children.