The item pictured is an antique railway signal lantern (oil or kerosene), also known as a railroad lantern or switch/signal lantern. Historical use: Lanterns of this type were used by railway workers for signaling, marking railcars, or providing emergency lighting during the 19th and 20th centuries. Construction: A square metal body featuring round glass windows (sometimes with lenses or filters in various colors such as red, white, or amber) and a top carrying handle.