Rare chemical table lighter from the late 19th century (circa 1880), designed to produce an instant flame through a reaction between a solution of potassium dichromate (or permanganate) and sulfuric acid.
The reservoir is made of blown-molded cobalt blue glass, with the inscription "LUMINUS MAXIMA" in relief on the neck. The metal cap is equipped with a threaded mechanism and an articulated arm holding a small side vial, also made of blue glass. The long upper screw allowed a wick or cotton rod to be lowered, which, upon contact with the acid, instantly ignited.
The operating principle is as follows:
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The main reservoir contained a preparation of potassium dichromate (often in solid, humidified form).
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The small side reservoir (the blue vial) contained sulfuric acid.
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When the metal rod was pressed, acid dripped onto the dichromate, causing an exothermic chemical reaction that ignited the wick.
- This system is very different from petrol lighters, which only use a volatile fuel and a flint.
These chemical lighters were used before the widespread adoption of safety matches and were a practical and elegant accessory on desks and smoking tables.
🔸 Features
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Period: circa 1880
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Material: cobalt blue glass, metal (probably nickel-plated brass or iron)
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Function: chemical reservoir lighter
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Dimensions: height 24 cm, base diameter 8.5 cm, weight 600g.
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Inscriptions: "LUMINUS MAXIMA" molded on the neck
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Condition: wear and oxidation from use on the metal part, overall good condition of the glass (original air bubbles and irregularities)
🔸 Collector's Interest
Chemical lighters are rare and highly sought after by enthusiasts of scientific objects, curiosities, and smoking accessories. This model, with its blue glass, is particularly decorative.
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