Whale Oil Lamp c. 1941

This detailed pencil drawing by Van Silvay, created around 1941, depicts a whale oil lamp. The artist, known for his meticulous still life works, captures the intricate details of the lamp's design, showcasing the glass reservoir, the metal wick holder, and the ornate base. The rendering's realistic style, with subtle shading and highlighting, gives the viewer a sense of the lamp's tactile quality. This piece provides insight into a bygone era when whale oil lamps were a common source of light, and offers a glimpse into the artist's fascination with everyday objects.