Antique Brass Gasoline Blowtorch with Cast Iron Bu

This is an antique gasoline blowtorch, a tool commonly used by plumbers and painters in the early 20th century. The piece features a cylindrical brass fuel tank with a distinctively flared base for stability. The burner assembly is constructed from cast iron and is mounted to the top of the tank via a brass neck. Positioned directly below the burner nozzle is a small cast preheating tray, also known as a priming cup. The fuel flow is regulated by a horizontal valve stem terminating in a cross-shaped control knob. The end of this knob features a cast emblem consisting of a central circle with radiating lines, resembling a sunburst. The burner casting is incised on one side with the numbers 248 followed by a partially obscured fourth digit, possibly a 7. The tool is equipped with a horizonta...