British Cargo Light No. 3954
Nautical Decorative Art / Maritime Instrument • Generic British Maritime Workshop (labeled 'Great Britain')
Style & Movement
Industrial Nautical / Utilitarian Maritime Design
Medium & Technique
Sheet brass and copper construction with glass panels; featuring die-stamping, soldering, and wire-forming techniques.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (dated 1939 on the plaque, though likely a later reproduction or functional marine warehouse piece)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 14-16 inches in height; vertical rectangular format.
Subject Description
A four-sided maritime lantern designed for heavy-duty cargo bay illumination. It features a protective cage, a central glass oil font/chimney, and a tiered chimney vent for heat dissipation. The brass plaque identifies it as a 'Cargo Light No. 3954'.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (Vintage Condition); shows surface oxidation (verdigris), minor spotting, and some scratching consistent with age and material.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $250 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely sourced from a maritime salvage collection or produced for the mid-20th century export market as functional decor.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the transition of industrial maritime equipment into the realm of domestic nautical decor. While functional in design, pieces like this are primary examples of British industrial heritage aesthetic.
Notable Features
Features a prominent brass identification plaque dated 1939, heavy-duty wire guards, and a decorative yet functional mounting chain.
Condition Issues
Surface tarnish and oxidation on brass and copper; minor soot residue inside the chimney; light surface scratches on glass panels.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a micro-crystalline wax to prevent further oxidation if desired, or leave as-is to preserve the aged patina. Store in a low-humidity environment.