Gaslampa

Gaslampa, or gas lamp, is an illumination device that produces light by burning gas. The gas may be supplied from a city gas network or from bottled fuels such as natural gas, propane, or coal gas. A gas lamp typically consists of a burner, an air intake, a glass globe or chimney, and a control mechanism to regulate gas flow and flame height. In lamps using a mantle, a delicate ceramic or fabric mantle is heated by the flame to radiate bright light.

Gas lighting began in the early 19th century and spread with urban gasworks across Europe and North America. It transformed street lighting and domestic illumination, enabling longer evening activity. A major advance was the gas mantle, introduced in the 1880s by Carl Auer von Welsbach, which increased light output by radiating heat from a heated mantle rather than from the flame alone. Mantle technology improved efficiency and enabled smaller, more compact lamps suitable for streets and interiors.

Operation and maintenance: the gas supply is controlled by a valve, and air is mixed through openings to sustain combustion. The mantle and chimney protect and shape the flame and glow; mantles are fragile and require periodic replacement. Lamps must be ventilated to avoid buildup of combustion byproducts, and leaks pose fire or health risks. Regular cleaning of glass and inspection of fittings are common maintenance tasks.

Decline and present use: electric lighting reduced dependence on gas lamps during the 20th century, but gas lighting remains in some historic districts, rural installations, and decorative settings. Modern gas lamps often use sealed burners and LPG or natural gas, with safety features and automatic shutoffs.