18th Century Militia or Fire Lantern???

[saving.history]

I've never seen anything like this. Hoping someone has. It's definitely a lantern of some sort judging by the clam shell "shield" reflector above the spout. It's about 6"x4". The attachment on the reverse makes me think it could have possibly gone onto a hat or something. Who knows?? Would love some help on this one! Thanks everyone!

 

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[tamrock]

I'm thinking fire fighting related...Like it belonged to a Hose Company No. 3 Hose Co No 3 Fire Museum

Maybe mining related also.

What's so very unique, is that the thing is all hand made and old, it takes on a folk art appeal. That number was hand cased out from the backside of it and not done with a stamping IMO. The patina is out standing, so please, please, please - don't ever think you should clean it up all nice and shiny. It took years to add that old copper finish to your wonderful old lantern.

 

[villagenut]

Very Cool is all I can add to Tamrock's post.