Description

This substantial vintage maritime porthole is constructed from heavy cast brass or bronze and measures approximately 21 inches in diameter. Designed for industrial marine use, the piece features thick glass housed within a robust cast frame complete with hinged opening assembly and four large threaded dog clamps used to secure the window watertight. The surface displays a naturally aged brass patina with areas of verdigris oxidation consistent with long-term exposure to marine environments, further enhancing its authentic nautical character and industrial appeal.

Based on the construction style, hardware, and associated history, this porthole likely dates to the late 1960s through the 1970s. The design is consistent with commercial riverboat and tugboat hardware used on working vessels during the mid-20th century. While no visible maker’s mark was located in the photographs, portholes of this quality and scale were commonly manufactured by specialized marine foundries supplying the inland river and commercial shipping industries. The thick cast frame, reinforced hinge assembly, and oversized securing dogs indicate this was built for functional maritime service rather than decorative reproduction use.

The glass features a decal image of the towboat “Charles Lehman,” reportedly presented to the original owner in commemoration of the vessel being named in his honor. The towboat appears associated with the American Commercial Barge Line fleet and represents an interesting piece of inland river transportation history. The vessel decal graphic remains crisp and highly visible, adding a unique personalized provenance to the piece. As noted, the decal or applied graphic could potentially be removed if desired, though it currently serves as an important part of the artifact’s story and presentation.

This porthole offers exceptional decorative potential for nautical interiors, lake homes, bars, restaurants, offices, or maritime collections. The large scale and substantial weight give it a commanding presence rarely found in modern decorative examples. The combination of authentic marine construction, aged brass finish, functional hardware, and commemorative vessel etching creates a striking industrial nautical display piece. Measures approximately 21 inches in diameter.

Note: This piece weighs 60-70 pounds so please plan accordingly to move and load this item. 

Condition

Please note all items are "as-is where-is"

Measurement

Measures approximately 21 inches in diameter.

This piece weighs 60-70 pounds so please plan accordingly to move and load this item. 

Terms and Conditions

1. All items are sold where is, as is.

2. Once payment is completed for item(s) won, the ability to schedule a pick-up time will become available. Scheduling a pick-up time is required.

3. There will be a $20 fee assessed per item not picked up at that time that will be collected prior to bidding again at our auctions. Unlike retail, we do not have the option to store your item. If the item is larger than a standard suitcase (22" x 14" x 10"), we will charge $50 to the card on file per item to move the item.

4. Please plan accordingly as items not picked up are considered "abandoned". Do not bid if you cant pick up this day.

5. You are responsible for ensuring you collect all items at pickup.

6. Legacy uses "Popcorn" or "Extended" bidding. This means if a bid comes in at the last second, it is extended 3 minutes. This is like a live auctioneer saying, "going once" to ensure all bids are exhausted prior to closing.

7. We charge a 12% flat buyers premium on all items.

8. We charge KY State Tax with the exception of vehicles which is collected at the DMV.

9. You must bring help to pickup any items. We can recommend movers upon request. Also, please bring tools for items that require disassembly.

10. Please read our complete terms and conditions for additional details.