Dolan & Co. “The Crescent Lamp” Bullseye/Dark Hand Lantern

A compact late-Victorian bullseye/dark kerosene hand lantern made by Dolan & Co. of London, likely between 1880–1900. 

It has a projecting bullseye lens at the front, perforated ventilated top, folding rear loop handles, and belt hooks. The plaque above the lens is marked: “Patent, The Crescent Lamp, Dolan & Co London.”  

A lever in the base operates a sliding inside door that can be used to dim or reduce the amount of light shining through the lens without having to extinguish the lantern burner. Lanterns of this type were used by police, railway staff, night watchmen, and other workers who needed a portable directed light before electric torches became common.

Condition: Good used antique condition. This was a working utilitarian lantern and shows wear from age and use. There is paint loss, rubbing to the black japanned finish, surface oxidation, scratches, dirt/soot residue, and handling wear. The chimney vent is bent to one slide.  The removable burner/fuel reservoir is included. The sliding metal shutter moves freely. Folding handles and belt hooks are intact.  Sold as an antique decorative piece only. Please see photos for details.

Dimensions

Height – 6.5"
Width – 3.5"
Depth (including belt hooks and lens) – 4.25"
Diameter of lens – 2.5"
Weight – 690 grams