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,—
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.