Byzantine, ca. 400 to 600 CE. This fired terracotta lamp has a handle, a hole for pouring in oil, and a hole for the wick and flame to emerge. There is a channel between the two holes and some decoration; there is also evidence for burning around the wick hole. There are carved decorations ringing the lamp and a carving on the bottom that may represent a manufacturer. Oil lamps are some of the most common household items found in the Mediterranean world, and Byzantine period lamps had little regionalism and often bore Christian symbols, such as the cross. Size: 4" x 2-1/2" x 2".

Provenance: Ex-private New York City collection; ex-private Wagner collection, Cape Cod, MA.

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#109068

Intact, but decoration is worn and there are some small chips. The symbol on the base is clear.