Gas Pump Art Appraisal

Vintage Union 76 Oil Barrel Pump

This item is a vintage manual oil drum pump, likely used for dispensing lubricants or fuel from a 55-gallon oil barrel. The main body consists of a cylindrical metal barrel, painted in the distinctive Union 76 brand colors: a white base with a prominent orange vertical stripe on one side, and a smaller blue stripe at the bottom. The iconic '76' logo, rendered in orange and blue, is clearly visible within the orange stripe. The barrel shows significant signs of age and exposure to the elements, including widespread rust, paint chipping, and discoloration, indicating it has been stored outdoors for an extended period. The top of the barrel features a red painted lid, which serves as the base for the pump mechanism. The pump itself is a manual piston-style pump, constructed of metallic components, possibly steel or cast iron. It has a hand-operated lever on the side for actuating the pump. A helmet-shaped cover, also made of metal and heavily corroded with rust and grime, sits atop the pump mechanism, suggesting it was designed to protect the internal workings from debris. The overall construction appears robust and industrial, characteristic of equipment from the mid-20th century. There are no obvious maker's marks or signatures visible other than the 'Union 76' branding, which points to its commercial use. The item exhibits heavy patina and wear consistent with its age and intended utilitarian purpose. The rust is extensive but appears to be mostly surface level, potentially allowing for restoration or preservation as an antique display piece. The pump handle shows similar wear and corrosion. No visible repairs are evident, and the components appear to be original to the piece. This item likely dates from the 1950s-1970s, a period when such manual pumps were commonly used for dispensing fluids at service stations or in industrial settings.