In the early 1860s, kerosene lamps began to be used in Russia. Light from kerosene lamps was much brighter than from other lighting methods used earlier. It would take several dozen wax candles to emit light as bright as one from a single kerosene lamp of the earliest model.

Two other important factors further increased the rapid growth in the popularity of kerosene lamps: cost and beauty. In the second half of the 19th — early 20th century, oil production increased significantly and therefore, kerosene — one of the by-products of oil refining — could be bought in many stores and pharmacies at relatively low prices. Kerosene was several times cheaper and a much more powerful light source than candles.

It should be noted that kerosene lamps were used not only for lighting but also as an element of home decor. Kerosene lamps were made of metal, glass and porcelain. Porcelain products were decorated with paintings. Much attention was paid to the upper glass part. In some instances, the upper part was made of frosted or colored glass, the lamp’s chimney could be done in a variety of shapes. Due to the peculiarities of the burner, the lower part of the chimney was almost always wider than the upper one.

Several large factories produced kerosene lamps at the end of the 19th century, the most famous of which was the “Brunner Brothers, Hugo Schneider and Rudolf Dietmar” factory in Vienna.

However, kerosene lamps have several disadvantages: kerosene has an unpleasant, pungent smell; a kerosene lamp is not easy to transport as the glass chimney may break, and the kerosene could spill; it presents a major fire hazard if used incorrectly; during the combustion of kerosene a large amount of carbon dioxide is released. To avoid poisoning, a kerosene lamp should be used in a well-ventilated room.

The demand for kerosene lamps in both cities and in rural areas persisted until the beginning of the 20th century. New light sources powered by electricity gradually replaced all other lighting devices.