Ellwood of Whitehaven phosphor
- Made:
- circa 1795 in United Kingdom
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Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Musuem
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Miner's lamp, made by Ellwood of Whitehaven, approximately 1795.
Thought to utilise the phosphorescence of natural materials that release phosphor as they decompose (such as fish skin) as a source of weak illumination. This was an early experimental method of safe lighting when working in coal mines which contained flammable gases. This is the only known surviving example of its type.
Details
- Category:
- Coal Mining
- Collection:
- Lancashire Coal Mining Collection
- Object Number:
- Y2002.19.216.1
- Measurements:
-
248 mm x 85 mm x 72 mm,
- type:
- miner's phosphor lamp
- credit:
- Gift of Salford Museum and Art Gallery
