A fantastic, circa 1900 Lucas car lamp in great condition. The lamp is complete with its original oil burner. There is a small red glass window on the back to allow the driver to see that the lamp is lit, a clear glass on the side and and a larger clear glass on the front (with hairline crack). Similar lanterns with a red front glass were used at the back of the vehicle. In good condition with a lovely rich patina.
The Lucas company was started in 1875 by Joseph Lucas who began to manufacture paraffin lamps after realising the growing demand for them. The King of the Road lamps were first put on the market in 1878, with the original purpose of being used on bicycles. As the automotive industry started to grow at the beginning of 20th century, Lucas took the opportunity to become part of this emerging market. After parliament raised the speed limit above walking pace in 1902; Lucas became a major player within the marketplace, right up to the 1980's. The King of the Road was the name given to Lucas' highest quality range of paraffin lamps, often accompanied with a high price tag.