posted on June 9, 2002 01:40:11 PM
I bought a box full of stuff at a flea market and this item was in it. I asked the seller if he had any idea what the item may be or clues about its orgin. The seller said he was cleaning out his garage and there were many items from a labratory in England in the 1890's such as glass test tubes but he was uncertain if this item was from that group.
The item appears to be entirely made of brass and stands 15 inches tall. There are 20 vertical hollow tubes that form almost a cage. The diameter of the cylinder is 3 inches and there is an one and a half inch opening and the top and a small hole in the base that goes through to the cylinder. There are no markings or numbers anywhere on the item.
My best guess is that it is some type of test tube holder to protect lab personnel from a possible rupture or heat of the large test tube. I've thought it may be an early form of a Bunson burner but ruled that out.
Anyone have any guesses or knowledge about this item?
posted on June 9, 2002 04:16:40 PM
I have a 1996 Olympic Torch, it looks very similar.. The top of the torch has the same type of reeds. The gas goes in the middle. Flame shoots from the top.
