A superb and highly displayable example of a genuine WW2 British A.R.P. lamp, complete with its original hood and matching issue box, clearly marked WD 3051. Issued under the Ministry of Health for use by Air Raid Precautions and Civil Defence personnel, lamps like this were an essential part of life on the British Home Front. Designed specifically for blackout conditions, the fitted hood directs light downward, allowing safe movement without risking visibility from the air during bombing raids. It’s a simple but effective piece of wartime design that perfectly captures the realities of civilian life under threat. The lamp itself is a classic wartime example, constructed out of metal painted black, with a metal carry handle and retaining its internal fittings and bulb. It presents very well, with honest signs of age and use that give it a genuine, untouched feel. The hood remains firmly in place and is a key feature that sets this apart from more standard examples. What really elevates this piece is the survival of its original box. Clearly printed “Lamp A.R.P. with Hood” and bearing Ministry of Health codes including WD 3051 and S1/52/B1, it provides fantastic context and makes this a far more desirable collector’s item. Boxed examples are increasingly difficult to find, particularly with matching contents. The box shows expected wear from age and storage, with some creasing and edge wear visible, but remains structurally sound and fully legible. The lamp itself is in very good condition overall, with no major damage and a pleasing, authentic patina throughout though there is a knock on the knob at the top (see photos). A strong, honest and complete Home Front piece that represents the everyday reality of wartime Britain. Ideal for collectors of Civil Defence equipment or anyone looking to add a well-presented and historically meaningful item to their collection.
