from Fifekeith, Banffshire

Crusie

A crusie is a form of oil lamp, often attributed to Scotland but probably of wider provenance. This iron example is from Fifekeith in Banffshire.

The crusie has two triangular pans. The upper one is an oil reservoir with a hinged lid across the bowl. The lower one is a drip pan to collect any drops. The height of the upper pan could be adjusted. The stem is bent forward and pierced for the suspension loop.

Crusies were made by local blacksmiths and were durable and long lasting. They were common throughout rural Europe, since they used cheap, easily obtained materials. They burned with a smoky, smelly flame, producing a low level of light.

Record details

To search on related items, click any linked text below.

Online ID:	000-190-004-148-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland H.MGE 34.2
Date:	18th - 19th century 18th - 19th century 18th or 19th century
Material:	Iron Iron
Dimensions:	4.75" L x 3.90" W Stem 6.15" H; suspension rod 4.90" L
What:	Crusie / lower pan Crusie / upper pan
Subject:	Lighting - crusies and stands (NMAS Classification) Lighting - crusies and stands (NMAS Classification)
Who:
Where:	Scotland, Banffshire, Fifekeith Scotland, Banffshire, Fifekeith
Event:
Description:	Iron crusie with a triangular lower pan which has rounded corners and is flat-bottomed, from Fifekeith, 18th or 19th century Iron crusie with a triangular lower pan which has rounded corners and a flat bottom, from Fifekeith, 18th or 19th century
References:
Translations:
Related Records: