Antique Dutch Brass Snotneus Oil Lamp, Flemish, 19th Century for Sale

Antique Dutch Brass Snotneus Oil Lamp, Flemish, 19th Century For Sale

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Antique Dutch Brass Snotneus Oil Lamp, Flemish, 19th Century:
$135.00

**A remarkable antique Dutch brass Snotneus oil lamp**, dating to the 19th century and belonging to the traditional Dutch and Flemish lighting tradition of the Low Countries. With its tall elegant stem, richly decorated brass body, sculpted conical base, long characteristic spout and beautiful aged patina, this is an exceptionally decorative example of early European oil lighting.
Traditionally known in the Netherlands and Flanders as a **“Snotneus”** — literally “snot nose” — this distinctive type of oil lamp takes its charming name from the characteristic projecting spout. During use, excess oil or melted animal fat could occasionally drip from the wick, giving rise to this memorable traditional Dutch name.
This impressive lamp combines practical early lighting technology with highly decorative craftsmanship. The broad, weighted conical base provides stability, while the tall slender stem rises to the cylindrical oil reservoir. The upper section features a closable lid, a long projecting wick spout, and the characteristic pierced decorative plate at the rear, which also serves as a convenient carrying element.
The brass body is richly ornamented with **raised and engraved decorative motifs**, including scrolling foliage, floral elements, geometric details and textured relief work. The decoration is particularly attractive around the base and upper reservoir, giving the lamp a wonderful sense of depth and craftsmanship. The naturally aged golden-brown patina further enhances the warmth and authenticity of the brass.
Snotneus lamps belong to the long tradition of **Dutch and Flemish domestic lighting**, and related examples can be found in museum collections in the Netherlands and Belgium. They were used before modern kerosene and electric lighting became widespread, with oil, animal fat and other traditional fuels providing illumination in the home.
What makes this example especially appealing is the combination of its **elegant proportions, substantial weight, elaborate relief decoration and remarkably well-preserved condition**. It is not merely a functional lighting object, but a beautiful piece of traditional Low Countries metalwork with strong decorative and collectible appeal.
### Condition
**Very good antique condition for its age.**
The lamp retains its original character, construction, decorative details and attractive aged patina. There are minor surface marks, small scratches, darkened areas, variations in color and other signs of age consistent with an authentic antique brass object.
The surface has not been aggressively polished, allowing the natural patina and fine decorative relief to remain visible. These signs of age are part of the character and history of the piece rather than detracting from it.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they show the actual item and form an important part of the condition description.
### Measurements
* **Height:** approx. 29 cm / 11.4 in* **Base diameter:** approx. 10.5 cm / 4.1 in* **Weight:** approx. 680 g / 1.5 lb* **Material:** Brass / yellow copper alloy* **Type:** Snotneus oil lamp* **Tradition:** Dutch / Flemish* **Period:** 19th century
### A wonderful piece of Dutch antique lighting
With its distinctive silhouette, elaborate brass decoration and beautiful aged surface, this antique **Dutch/Flemish Snotneus oil lamp** would make a wonderful addition to a collection of European antiques, Dutch or Flemish brassware, traditional folk art, early lighting, or historic decorative objects.
It would also make an exceptional statement piece for a traditional, rustic, farmhouse, European country or Old World interior.
**A distinctive survivor from the age of pre-electric lighting — full of character, craftsmanship and history.** Related Items: