Need some help! What is this thing?

[Inix]

I thought this was a part of a chafing dish heater. Cant figure out what the fitting on top is for. Any info is appreciated!

 

[osage express]

It is a center draft lamp of some sort I have never seen one like that. But that is a wick with lifter Cool find

 

[PikesPeakCharlie]

Never have seen one, looks like a small oil lamp with a handle,,,, easy to carry on a trip to the outhouse ��

 

[GeoW]

Think it may have something to do with sex..

geo

 

[jeff of pa]

Bed Warmer?

I've never seen one with Something like that inside.
But it's the Right Shape.

Looks like it ran on Kerosene.





Maybe even a Portable camp Stove

 

[Retired Sarge]

Bunsen burner?

 

[A2coins]

Rub it see if a genie comes smoking out of it!!!!!!

 

[DCMatt]

I think your guess is correct. It's a chafing dish lamp (burner). From the 1880's through the 1920's, chafing dishes were very popular - though not used the same way we use them today. They were the hot plate of the day, used for cooking small meals in your room.

During that era the US population had begun migrating from central family living to cities where the college dorms, rooming houses, and hotel rooms didn’t have kitchens. They still needed to eat! Do a search on 'chafing dish cookbook'. I was amazed...

Yours is missing a few parts, like the wick adjuster. Is the handle made of Bakelite? That could help you determine age.

 

[Georgivs]

Perhaps the fitting on top would be for a striker?