Byzantinsk Bronze Olielampe med hanmasketerminal. Spansk eksportlicens.

ITEM: Oil lamp with male mask terminal
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Byzantine
PERIOD: 5th - 6th Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 80 mm x 60 mm x 140 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Emeritus collection (USA), collected from the 1950’s to the 1980’s by a distinguished university professor who served as Department head, Dean and Vice President of a major university.
PARALLEL: BRITISH MUSEUM Collection, accession number 98929.
LAFLI, E., & BUORA, M., Roman, Early Byzantine and Islamic Bronze Lamps from Southern Anatolia Plate 1, Fig. 7a - 7c

Byzantine oil lamps in bronze are valuable artifacts that shed light on both the daily life and artistic achievements of the Byzantine Empire. These lamps were commonly used in households and religious settings to provide illumination. Crafted from bronze, they often feature intricate designs that reflect the high level of craftsmanship prevalent during the Byzantine period. The use of bronze, a durable and relatively inexpensive material, allowed for both functional and decorative elements, making these lamps a common and versatile item in Byzantine interiors.

The design of Byzantine bronze oil lamps frequently included elaborate decorations and symbolic motifs. Common features included intricate geometric patterns, floral designs, and sometimes Christian symbols, such as crosses or images of saints. These decorative elements were not merely aesthetic but also conveyed religious and cultural significance. The iconography often reflected the Byzantine emphasis on blending art with spirituality, and the presence of religious symbols on everyday items like oil lamps underscores the role of religion in daily life during this period.

In terms of functionality, Byzantine bronze oil lamps were designed with practical features such as a reservoir for oil and a wick holder. The design ensured a steady and controlled flow of oil to the wick, allowing for a consistent source of light. Many lamps were crafted with a spout or a handle for easy pouring and handling, demonstrating the craftsmanship involved in making functional yet elegant objects. The study of these lamps provides insights into the technological and artistic advancements of the Byzantine Empire, as well as the everyday practices of its inhabitants.

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