Infrared radiation automotive lamp filter

A thermal filter is provided within a vehicle lamp assembly for reducing thermal radiation from reaching selected portions of the lamp assembly from an illumination light source disposed within the vehicle lamp. The thermal filter includes an inner envelope and an outer envelope in spaced relation to the inner envelope. The inner envelope and the outer envelope define a closed chamber therebetween. The closed chamber being disposed between the illumination light source and the selected portions of the lamp assembly. The inner envelope includes an interior portion. A thermal radiation absorbing agent disposed within the closed chamber. The thermal radiation absorbing agent receives radiation emitted from the illumination source. The thermal radiation absorbing agent is transparent to short wave visible radiation and is substantially opaque to long wave infrared radiation. A substantial portion of the long wave infrared radiation absorbed by the absorbing agent is retained within the closed chamber.