Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Boroughs > City of London
One of the Advantages of Oil over Gas, 1821. Artist: Richard Dighton
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
One of the Advantages of Oil over Gas, 1821. Artist: Richard Dighton
One of the Advantages of Oil over Gas, 1821. A lamplighter is mounted on a ladder, engaged in filling a lamp with oil; momentarily distracted, he pours the oil over a passing citizen. Plate III of A London Nuisance
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 15172122
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Accident Advantage Annoying Danger Dangerous Dighton Incident Ladder Lamp Lamplighter Nuisance Richard Richard Dighton Street Life
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> D
> Richard Dighton
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Still life paintings
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Oil paintings
> Arts
> Portraits
> Pop art gallery
> Street art portraits
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Still life artwork
> Still life paintings
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Still life artwork
> Oil paintings
> Arts
> Street art graffiti
> Still life
> Still life artwork
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> City of London
One of the Advantages of Oil over Gas, 1821
EDITORS COMMENTS
captures a comical yet cautionary scene from 19th-century London. In this vividly colored etching by Richard Dighton, we witness an incident that highlights both the advantages and annoyances associated with oil lamps. The artwork portrays a lamplighter perched on a ladder, diligently filling a lamp with oil. However, in a momentary lapse of concentration, he accidentally pours the oil onto an unsuspecting passerby below. This mishap serves as a satirical commentary on the dangers inherent in this occupation. Dighton's clever depiction not only showcases his artistic talent but also offers insight into street life during this era. The bustling cityscape and intricately detailed buildings provide context for the narrative unfolding before our eyes. While humorously capturing an accident, "One of the Advantages of Oil over Gas" reminds us of the risks faced by those responsible for lighting up London's streets at night. It prompts contemplation about how advancements such as gas lighting eventually replaced these labor-intensive practices. This print is part of A London Nuisance series housed at Guildhall Library and Art Gallery. Through its witty satire and vibrant colors, it transports viewers back to a time when street lighting was still evolving—a testament to both human ingenuity and occasional misfortune.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
