VTG SNCF French Railroad Lantern Electrified Lamp Paris Nord Brass Tag Black C17
Vintage French SNCF Railway Lantern, Electrified Lamp. Add a real piece of French rail history to your shelf, desk or workshop. This black metal railway lantern carries brass identification plates stamped SNCF, "PARIS NORD" and the number 49, and it has been converted to plug in with a cord and inline switch. It has the worn, hardworking look that collectors of industrial and railroadiana love.
Black painted metal lantern body with wire carry handle and hanging hook. Brass plate stamped "SNCF EX 49 / PARIS NORD AGRES" on the lantern body, plus a matching plate on the bell-shaped base.
Square glass lens window with a round lens opening; clear bulb installed. Top vent hood with perforated holes, side hook and side reflector panel.
Converted to electric: brown two-prong cord with inline white rocker switch marked 15A-120VAC. 16 in tall including handle; base approx. 5.5 in across (estimated from photos with tape measure).
Origin: France (SNCF is the French national railway). Age not confirmed; see photos. Used, vintage condition with heavy wear consistent with age. Black finish appears to have been repainted at some point: rough, bubbled and uneven paint on the top vent hood and handle, with visible chips and flaking (some chips show tan or light paint underneath).Paint wear, scuffs and chips on the base, including heavier wear around the bottom rim and underside. Dust, grime and soot-like residue on the top, lens frame and inside surfaces; not cleaned so as not to disturb the patina. Front glass is dirty and hazy with fine scratches; no large cracks seen in the photos. Top vent hood has a rough, slightly damaged edge at the front.
Side reflector panel and various sheet-metal edges are bent or irregular. Brass plates are tarnished and scratched, and the lettering is partly worn. The cord is aged, the plug is tarnished, and a small amount of exposed copper wire is visible at the edge of the inline switch.
We recommend having it inspected or rewired by a qualified person before plugging in. Bulb is present but whether it works is unknown.