Bidspirit auction | Antique Hand Forged Iron Betty

Antique Hand Forged Iron Betty Lamp, ca. 1750-1830 - This hand-forged wrought iron Betty lamp is an early example of colonial-style lighting, designed for burning grease, fat, or oil. The lamp features a shallow, pear-shaped fuel reservoir that terminates in an open narrow spout for a wick. The construction is characterized by a crude, hammered texture evidence of manual blacksmithing. A vertical, curved support arm connects the reservoir to a hinged flat iron lid. Extending from the rear is a long, angled handle that terminates in a hooked spike, allowing the device to be suspended from a mantle or wedged into timber. There are no maker's marks or stamps visible on the iron components.