Rushlight

Periodca. 1725 - 1775

Place MadePossibly New Jersey, U.S.A.

MediumWrought iron

Dimensions8.63 × 6.13 in. (21.9 × 15.6 cm)

ClassificationsLighting Equipment & Accessories

Credit LineGift of Mrs. William C. Riker

Object number1990.554

DescriptionA rushlight consisting of a thin central shaft atop a tripod base. The base legs are gently curved down to small flat pad feet, with one leg of the base longer than the other two legs. On top of the shaft is a delicate clamp assembly, with a slightly curved pressure handle and spring tab which open and closes the top clamp to hold the rush light.
Curatorial RemarksThe simplest and cheapest household light was the rushlight. Rushes were gathered from local wetlands, then cut into smaller lengths. Each rush was dipped into animal fat over and over until the layers built up into a thin candle. The “pith” or inner portion of the reed acted as the wick, drawing the fat up to the top of the rushlight. A special type of holder held the rush light at an angle. Rush lights provided the light of a single match and lasted only a couple of hours. Sometimes, the rush would be lit at both ends to double the light, resulting in the saying “burning the candle at both ends.”

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