Four Wick Oil Lamp Israel, circa 2000 BC. An oil lamp is an object used to produce light continuously for a period of time using an oil-based fuel source. The use of oil lamps began thousands of years ago and continues to this day. Oil lamps are a form of lighting, and were used as an alternative to candles before the use of electric lights. Starting in 1780 the Argand lamp replaced other oil lamps still in their basic ancient form. These in turn were replaced by the kerosene lamp in the 1850s. In small towns and rural areas the latter continued in use well into the 20th century, until such areas were electrified and light bulbs could be used. Most modern lamps (such as fueled lanterns) have been replaced by gas-based or petroleum-based fuels to operate when emergency non-electric light is required. Oil lamps of today are primarily used for the particular ambience they produce, or in rituals and religious ceremonies.