Ca. 1-100 AD. A terracotta oil lamp, Loeschcke VIII type, is a remarkable example of functional and decorative artistry. It features a round body with a sunken tondo at the center, which is perforated by a central filling hole and vent hole. The tondo is separated from the shoulder by a thick ridge, while the shoulder is embellished with a captivating register of vegetal tendrils, further emphasizing the lamp's aesthetic appeal. The front of the lamp is adorned with a small spout, which terminates in a wick hole, while the rear is fitted with a loop handle for ease of handling. The lamp rests on a flat base, which bears the marker's mark, indicating the maker's identity. Oil lamps were an essential part of daily life in the ancient world, serving as a primary source of light after dark. The lamp's spout was filled with oil, and a wick made of flax or cotton was inserted into the hole, which was then lit to provide light. Lamps such as this were commonly used in domestic settings, as well as in public places such as temples, where they would have served both practical and symbolic functions. The decorative elements of this particular lamp suggest that it may have been used in a domestic setting, where its aesthetic qualities could be fully appreciated.Size: L:120mm / W:90mm ; 80gProvenance: Private UK collection; From an old London collection formed in the 1990s.