[f. proper name of inventor, a Frenchman, early in 19th c.] Carcel-lamp, a lamp in which the oil is pumped up to the wick by clockwork. Called also the French or mechanical lamp.
1838. Morning Herald, 5 March, 3/3. The Carcel Lamps … are liable to many expensive derangements.
1845. Mechanic’s Mag., XLIII. 402. One of the most deserving of notice is the improved carcel lamp.
c. 1865. Letheby, in Circ. Sc., I. 105/1. Colza oil is generally consumed in the Carcel or French lamp.
1881. Miss Braddon, Asphodel, v. 60. In the bright white light of the carcel lamps.
