Cameras/flash lamp
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Question
Hello, I have a very old flash lamp ( flash powder) that is marked Burke &
James Chigaco. PAT. APPLD. FOR.
Measurements: Tray; length. 12in. width; 2 and 1/2 in.
Type: spring Percussion cap, wooden handle, Iron body
I use it for night photography and gives superb results for large format unlike
flash bulbs wich give a low illumination. I use those red toy gun caps in place
of percussion caps to ignite powder. Neighbores seem to like the big flash.
any information would be greatful. Thanks. Race Gentry
Hello,
Burke & James was one of the largest photographic supplies dealers in the United States from the turn of the century well into the 1940's. Geez, they made EVERYTHING. Powder flash was initially popularized in the early 1890's. Your example of a flash "gun" most likely dates from the late 1910's into the early 1920's. You're correct, powder flash is MUCH more powerful than contemporary flash bulbs, BUT it doesn't match up to the spot power and control provided by the big vintage flash bulbs that were originally introduced in the late 1920's and totally replaced powder. The larger ones could blot out the sun! I have a similar powder flash system I use for demonstrations, and toy gun caps are superb replacements for the original percussion caps, although I tend to stack three caps at a time to make sure I get the necessary ignition heat. These vintage powder flashes are regarded as very collectible, and they're tough to find in clean complete outfits. A truly excellent example would sell for around $100 today, but a REALLY fine one in the original box would quickly double in price.
Best wishes,
David Silver
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David Silver
Expertise
I'm an expert on all types of antique, classic, and contemporary cameras, as well as the general history of photography. Everything from ancient box cameras to modern single-lens-reflex; from simple Kodaks to sophisticated Leica and Nikon; from glass plates and roll film to movie and 35mm. I can identify and appraise them, explain how they work, and offer insights on their restoration and care. I can also provide historical background on vintage cameras and equipment, and guidelines on their purchase and sale.
Experience
I've been a professional photographer and a student of the history of photography for nearly 30 years. During that time my collection of vintage cameras and photographic paraphernalia has grown beyond 2000 significant pieces. I've published nearly 70 articles in the field, including 16 in the popular "Buying Classic Cameras" series for PHOTO SHOPPER MAGAZINE from 1995 to 1997, I'm currently a contributing editor for CAMERA SHOPPER MAGAZINE and McKEOWN'S PRICE GUIDE TO ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC CAMERAS, and I've written numerous entries for WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA. Portions of my collection have been displayed in museums and special exhibits in the past two decades, and many of the items were photographed as illustrations for books. In 1985 I founded the International Photographic Historical Organization (InPHO), which eventually evolved into its intended purpose as the best first resource for information on the history of photography. I'm also a founding member of several e-mail forums dedicated to specialized areas of photography, and I'm the moderator of the Internet Directory of Camera Collectors (IDCC), which remains the largest and most successful such group in the world. For more information about the International Photographic Historical Organization and its many services, please visit its web pages at:
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