An astral lamp is a type of elegant oil lamp introduced during the early nineteenth century, distinguished by its broad circular reservoir positioned around the central burner. Designed to improve stability and provide a consistent supply of oil, the astral lamp was both practical and highly decorative. Often manufactured from gilt bronze, brass, ormolu, porcelain or cut glass, many examples feature classical or Regency-inspired decoration. Today, antique astral lamps are admired for their sophisticated design and represent an important stage in the development of domestic lighting.