Antique Indian Mashal Torch

Antique Indian mashal lamps, made of iron and mango wood, these were used as fire lanterns before electricity reached much of India and were attached to the outside of houses, havelis or street corners, where they were filled with oil or oily rags, and were lit all night, to make the streets safer to walk in. Today these can still be used to burn oil, but are mostly attached to walls internally in the UK, where wax candles are added. They are sturdy, versatile and can be used indoors or outside and are easily screwed to any wall. They are also often used in Retail Display. A real find! Dimensions: Length 13 x Width 18 x Height 56cm