"ANCIENT ROMAN OIL LAMP" 
CLAY OIL LAMP 2nd - 4th Century AD 
DISCOVERED IN THE HOLY LAND

"As thou shalt command the children of Yisra'el, that they bring pure 
olive oil for the light, to cause the lamp to burn always" Exodus 27:20

The lamp in the form of a small clay bowl in which oil was burned, was the most common form of domestic lighting from the very earliest of times. As olive oil was plentiful in Palestine, this form of fuel was normally used in these lamps. The wick was usually made of flax. Whilst the shapes of lamps vary from simple bowls to very ornate clay and bronze artworks, this lamp is a quite simple yet exquisite design. Clay lamps are amongst the most prolific pottery vessels found in the archaeological remains, both in homes and tombs of the period. Since they where very simple and cheap household utensils, their shape was not influenced by fashion as much as other pottery vessels. They do, however constitute an important source for the study of art, religious customs, culture and symbolism of the period. 

This lamp lit homes when the Roman Empire ruled the world. A metaphor of joy and prosperity, for hope, for life itself, lamps have illuminated the path of civilization for centuries. They have guided great thoughts through the night, stood vigil with lonely passions. In the presence of this simple object, we are in touch directly with a vanished world, with the people once warmed by its glow. 

Today it remains as an enduring symbol of man's desire to conquer the darkness. 

Period 200 to 400 AD
Discovered in Jerusalem - Judea.

Type: Clay Roman Oil Lamp

Descriptive: This very rare and lovely Late Roman oil lamp is similar to the North Africa type roman lamps found across the empire. It is a beautiful example of the ancient artisans work of lamp manufacture. The intricate designs and hidden meanings of this style of ancient pottery add to the beauty of this unique piece. The lamp also has some mineral and soil deposits attached, which do not detract from the exquisite nature of this gorgeous lamp.

Condition: Intact as found
Makers mark underside

Size: 107mm x 55mm x 28mm (Height including handle 50mm)

Shipping & Handling: Australia: $6.50   International: $9.50