The railway lantern was a signalling device used in railway transport. This lantern was used in France during the 19th and early 20th century to indicate the presence and direction of trains on railway tracks.
This lantern contains a plate on its side that indicates the name Chimins de fer de l'Ouest; The Companie des chemins de fer de l'Ouest (CF de l'Ouest), often referred to simply as L'Ouest or Ouest, was one of the first French railway companies to operate between 1855 and 1909.
The lantern glass is damaged, as can be seen in the photos.
32.3 cm, 15 cm, 23.5 cm.