This is an original WW2 British electric inspection lamp manufactured by Lamp Electric (N.Y.) Ltd, complete with its original cardboard stores box and issue tag. These compact electric lamps were designed as portable work lights, intended for use in workshops, maintenance areas, and by technical personnel requiring directed illumination in confined or poorly lit spaces. The design features a cylindrical steel body finished in wartime brown paint, with a pivoting hood that allows the beam to be directed downward onto a work surface. The lamp is mounted within a simple wire support frame that allows it to be stood upright or positioned at different angles while in use. Power is supplied by internal dry cells, with the bulb mounted within the removable end cap assembly. The internal contact plate and wiring are still present. The body is clearly stamped “Lamp Electric (N.Y.) Ltd”, confirming wartime production by the British manufacturer Lamp Electric of New York Road, Leeds. This firm produced a variety of electrical lighting equipment during the war, including inspection lamps and portable lighting for civil defence and industrial use. Accompanying the lamp is its original stores tag marked “YB/WB 1501 – Lamps Elect No.1 – P.P.Q. 1 – CFD”. The CFD marking likely refers to Civil Fire Defence, suggesting use within Britain’s Home Front emergency services during the war. The lamp is also supplied in its original cardboard storage box with a matching label. Portable electric lighting of this type was widely used throughout wartime Britain by Civil Defence organisations, fire brigades, ARP services, and engineering teams working in blackout conditions or damaged buildings. A scarce and unusual example of practical WW2 Home Front equipment, especially desirable when still accompanied by its original tag and storage box. Condition is good overall. The lamp retains its original wartime brown paint with honest signs of use and minor paint loss. The internal components appear complete. The cardboard storage box survives but shows heavy wear, age-related deterioration and repairs from long storage. The original issue tag is still present and remains clearly readable.
