Polished brass ship's lamp

Category

Museums & Galleries Item

Item no

51536

Title

A polished brass ship's lamp embossed with the word, 'Port'.

Description

A polished brass ship's lamp against a grey background. The word ‘Port’ is embossed above an opening showing a bulb behind red glass. Part of a cable is visible in the background.

Location

Museums Collection Centre

Copyright

The City of Edinburgh Council Museums and Galleries

We are used to the idea of recycling and upcycling in our everyday lives, but this object brings it new meaning. This may look like an old brass ship’s light, but is in fact a table lamp, having been transformed by the addition of a household bulb, electrical cable and plug. Reusing old objects like this one allows us to give new life to something that otherwise might just be thrown away or forgotten. It can also be a reminder of, and connection to, ways of living and working that aren’t to be found today. In this instance, the lamp may light up a home rather than the side of a boat, but still connects us to its original nautical use.

The technology used by sailors and fishermen at sea has changed significantly in recent decades. Large brass lamps like this one would once have been commonplace onboard, but have now been replaced by more efficient lighting. In maritime navigation, Port means the left-hand side of the boat, in the direction of onward travel, and is always marked by a red light. A corresponding green light indicates Starboard, or the right-hand side. Using fixed terms like these allows clear instructions to be given onboard, ensuring accurate working and safe sailing.

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Related subjects

Architecture > Architectural features > Lights

Places > Edinburgh areas > Newhaven

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Transport > Water > Boats

Transport > Water > Fishing boats

Transport > Water > Ships

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