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Overview An authentic artifact of early 20th-century industrial engineering, this heavy cast brass wick-feed oiler box served as a dedicated journal and bearing lubricator for stationary steam engines, mill machinery, or railway equipment. Featuring side mounting ears and a forward delivery spout, it makes a compelling paperweight, desk accent, or display piece for Steampunk, Industrial Rustic, and Antique Tool collections. Cultural & Artistic Background Wick-feed oilers utilize capillary action to deliver continuous, regulated lubrication to heavy moving machinery parts. Oil or liquid grease stored in the main reservoir is drawn upward by cotton or wool gauze wicking, over the lip of the interior feed pipe, and down through the angled delivery tube directly onto rotating shafts or slides. The heavy cast construction and integrated side mounting flanges allowed the box to be bolted directly onto engine beds or machine frames. Condition & Surface Character • Heavy cast brass structure with thick walls and fully intact side mounting flanges. • Original pin-hinged lid opens smoothly to reveal the internal reservoir. • Internal chamber contains period cotton wicking and gauze material saturated with aged grease residue. • Angled forward delivery spout remains structurally intact. • Deeply aged surface patina with dark charcoal oxidation, verdigris highlights, and grease-softened bronze tones. Dimensions & Weight • Height: 1.8 inches • Width: 4.3 inches • Depth: 3.8 inches
