Britannica AI Icon

Quick Summary

An oil lamp is a device that produces light by burning oil. Historically, oil lamps were a significant source of illumination before the advent of gas and electric lighting.

A key development in oil lamp technology was the Argand burner, invented in 1782. This innovation featured a circular wick and a glass chimney, which improved air circulation for a steadier, smokeless flame. These lamps initially used fish oil, later transitioning to vegetable oil, and by the mid-19th century, mineral oil. The Argand burner was a primary lighthouse illuminant for over a century. Later, vaporized oil burners, using kerosene, offered even greater power.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
3 Britannica Sources
  1. oil lamp
  2. lighthouse - Oil lamps
  3. lamp

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.