In 1982 I wrote to a company to try and find out what this was.  I still have a very nice letter from them explaining its purpose. It was made between 1890 and 1900 at a time when photographers had to develop their own film. It probably had a glass insert  but it was missing when I got it. This company was later believed to have  been purchased by Kodak.  It stands  8 1/4 inches tall and has paint missing as you can see from the photographs. the wick looks as if it has never been used. Please ask questions before bidding as there is no return on it.  Payment is due four days after the end of the auction. Upon receipt, i try to ship within two days.