ITEM: Oil lamp depicting an animal MATERIAL: Pottery CULTURE: Roman PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D DIMENSIONS: 40 mm x 58 mm x 96 mm CONDITION: Good condition, repaired with a little hole PROVENANCE: Ex French private collection, acquired before 1980s Roman oil lamps, used extensively throughout the Roman Empire from the 3rd century BCE to the late antiquity, are fascinating artifacts that illuminate various aspects of daily life, culture, and technology in ancient Rome. Made primarily of clay, these lamps were mass-produced using molds, making them accessible and widespread. They were fueled by olive oil, which was plentiful in the Mediterranean region. The typical design includes a central reservoir for the oil, a nozzle where the wick would be placed, and a handle or lug for carrying. The lamps' portability and efficiency made them a staple in Roman households, public buildings, and even military encampments. The decoration and inscriptions on Roman oil lamps provide valuable insights into Roman art, religion, and social practices. Many lamps were adorned with intricate motifs and scenes, such as mythological figures, animals, gladiatorial combats, and daily life activities. These decorations were not merely ornamental but often carried symbolic meanings or conveyed messages about the owner's status, beliefs, or affiliations. Some lamps bore inscriptions or maker’s marks, indicating the workshop or manufacturer. These marks help archaeologists trace the distribution and trade networks of Roman oil lamps across the empire, from Britain to North Africa and the Near East. Roman oil lamps also played a significant role in religious and funerary practices. They were commonly used in domestic shrines and temples, where they would burn as offerings to the gods. In funerary contexts, lamps were placed in tombs and graves as grave goods, providing light for the deceased in the afterlife or symbolizing eternal life. Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export license If you bid outside the European Union and win the item, we will have to apply for an export licence for your country and shipping will take 3 to 5 weeks.