Bulpitt Bulkhead Lantern

A super example of an eminently collectable bulkhead lantern by Bulpitt of Birmingham. Considered by collectors and dealers alike to be the 'Rolls Royce' of ships lanterns, with a build quality that is second to none. This example is clearly marked with the makers detail, Bulpitt & Sons of Birmingham. This company was founded in the late 19th century as a brass founder, later becoming a major manufacturer of lamps and copper kettles (made under the trademark 'Swan Brand') ; Bulpitt was finally dissolved on 21 May 1989.

This example was made in 1913, but despite being 112 years old remains in remarkable original condition, with just the odd ding associated with its age and service use. The design was such a classic it served unchanged through two world wars and was supplied during both to the British Royal Navy. Many of these lamps have been converted to electricity in more recent times but this one has avoided this fate and comes complete with a superior brass burner and even the wick adjustment key that is almost always missing. Whilst we have not tested, we believe with the addition of an appropriate wick and oil it would still work exactly as intended. The reflector plate behind the burner is a later replacement.

The lamp stands 16" high (41 cm),with the handle folded down and 8.5" wide (22 cm). It weighs in at a hefty 10.6 lbs (4.9 kilos), that reflects the build quality, so do check the delivery charge with us before ordering. We have not had one of these in for ages but as it happens, we now have another to a similar specification, so if you were after a pair please enquire and we can provide additional photographs. The price shown is for a single lamp but if ordering a pair we could offer less 10% plus the delivery charge.