subject: Ancient Chinese Oil Lamps – An Important Part Of Chinese Tradition Finds Its Way Into Fine Decorative Settings Everywhere [print this page] Ancient Chinese Oil Lamps An Important Part Of Chinese Tradition Finds Its Way Into Fine Decorative Settings Everywhere
Oil lamps have been used over several thousand years, and like the Romans, even the Chinese used traditional oil lamps. Ancient Chinese oil lamps come in fancy containers with mandarin symbols which typically display a message such as peace, love or harmony.
These stunning lamps which were used as essential lighting elements in the past have now become decorative pieces and enhance the beauty of our indoor spaces. These hanging or pedestal oil lamps can be made of clay, metal or glass and are available from $10 and up. Ancient Chinese oil lamps provide a very desirable ambience to any setting and they are much safer to use than open flame candles.
Initially animal fat, olive oil or whale oil was used to light oil lamps, but these substances became expensive. Oil lamp users moved on to using coal oil or kerosene. Kerosene emits a terrible odor and leaves soot on walls, draperies and the ancient Chinese oil lamps' shades. Because of this, oil lamp users began using more refined lamp oil; they eventually graduated to using paraffin oil.
Ancient Chinese oil lamps are constructed with glass shades. These shades require regular cleaning due to the soot deposits. You can wipe them with newspaper and also wash them with dishwasher liquid/ detergent to get rid of the accumulated soot.
When refilling your lamp oil, be very careful. Once you have removed the glass lamp shade, you should completely unscrew the burner piece. You need to soak the wick in oil for almost ten minutes before lighting it; you should make sure that almost " of the wick sticks out of the lamp for easy lighting. It can lead to explosion or serious accident if the wick enters the inside of the oil lamp while it is burning.
Ancient Chinese oil lamps continue to be lit at Chinese shrines as an important part of their tradition. They are typically placed before a deity or a Chinese symbol. These lamps have gained popularity in recent times and make great gifts. They are widely used in hotels and spas to add a sense of warmth and ambiance.
