Oil Lamp 005

Size: 12 x 7,5 cm

Period: Roman/ Byzantine , c. 300- 600 AD

Condition: Slightly worn

Provenance: Collection Bjarte Rekdal (b 1935)

The items were acquired in Tunisia between 1965-1966.

Price € 275,—

Ancient oil lamp with buste and two hollow eye openings, black background.

Roman/Byzantine Oil Lamp with Bust

This is an ancient terracotta oil lamp, molded in fine reddish clay and covered with a thin slip, a fabric and finish characteristic of Roman Imperial–period lamps (approximately 1st–3rd century AD). The lamp has a pear-shaped body with a long, tapering nozzle ending in a rounded wick hole. Two openings are visible on the upper surface: a larger filling hole and a smaller air hole, both necessary for proper oil flow and combustion.

The upper surface (the discus) is framed by a raised, curving border that flows into the nozzle, creating a continuous decorative channel around the central image. The rim is embellished with small stamped or notched motifs, typical of mold-made Roman lamps intended for mass production.

A Figure bust looking right wearing headdress and necklace.