Whale Oil Ship Lamp 1935 - 1942

Howard Lumbard made this watercolor of a whale oil ship lamp sometime between 1855 and 1995. It is an object that evokes the complex relationship between industry, culture, and natural resources. The lamp itself symbolizes a crucial chapter in American history, when whale oil was a primary source of illumination. Whale oil fueled not only lamps but also the economic engine of many coastal communities. The presence of the bird is also interesting, as it comments on the relationship between humanity and nature. This image invites us to consider the social conditions that shaped artistic production and consumption. To fully understand this work, we might delve into archives, historical societies, and museum collections to uncover the stories of the people who made, used, and depicted such objects. By doing so, we can better grasp the multifaceted meaning of art.