Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A charming cast bronze oil lamp with a looped, overhanging handle that nearly touches the discus. Attached to the handle as a finial is a masked face with hair at the sides and a curved headdress. The body of the lamp is long, with a broad, flared spout, and a deep border around the edge. It stands on a diminutive, round foot. Size: 6" L x 2.6" W x 3.25" H (15.2 cm x 6.6 cm x 8.3 cm)

As in Greece, masks played an important role in Roman theatre. An actor's entire head and hair would be covered by a large mask of simple design, made from linen or cork, with holes for the mouth and eyes. These masks allowed audience members seated in all areas of the theatre to understand what was happening, while also amplifying the actor's voice. The Pompeiian mosaic from the House of the Tragic Poet (now in the Naples National Archaeological Museum) shows several examples of these masks including one actor wearing an example pushed up on his head. Mask motifs on decorative art speak to the power and popularity of Roman theatre.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#136282

Smooth, dark, mottled brown and green patina on surface.