Antique Besnard Car Headlamp

An interesting antique decor item!  This "Les Vestales" car headlight/lantern was made in France around 1900 by Besnard.  It has one large and one small glass lens (both clear), and comes complete with removable fuel burner.

Back of lamp has an engraved brass plaque affixed with "Les Vestales" Phares Besnard, No 1863, Unis France, Breveté Déposé.

The fuel burner is labelled "Tourner exterieurement, le recipient pour regler la flamme", and "Apres avoir garni la lampe vider l'exces d'essence tenir la flamme tres basse a la umage"*.

Condition: This was a working car headlamp!  As a result there are scratches, dents, and wear to paint. See photos for condition.

Dimensions:
Height – 7.25"
Width (at widest point) – 5.25"
Depth - 5"
Weight - 856 grams

 

* Translation:  Turn the container outwards to adjust the flame. After filling the lamp, empty the excess fuel and keep the flame very low at the right angle.