I found these 'Mariposas' whilst I was looking for some candles in my local mini supermarket. They were at the back of the shelf, hidden by boxes of matches and candles. They must have been there for years, but they're in perfect original condition. The truth is they should be in a museum of Spain's past because Mariposas are lights for the very poor.I'd heard about these lights from my old neighbour who used them until 2002, despite having electric lights. They're handmade from a thin slice of wine cork, coloured paper and a wick dipped in wax. They're used by floating them on old oil or pork fat, and lighting the wick.
I gave one a try last night, and using modern lamp oil it worked a treat!
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Fascinating!!
ReplyDeleteIt's so right, so very cool, that you were the one to stumble upon them. And I have to echo Caroline above and say, "Fascinating!"
ReplyDeleteIs it cork side up or paper side up in the oil. Just wondering thanks, Ann
ReplyDeleteThe cork sits in the oil.
ReplyDeleteTim