ROMAN NORTH AFRICAN TERRACOTTA OIL LAMP WITH A LEAF

ROMAN NORTH AFRICAN TERRACOTTA OIL LAMP WITH A LEAF
Ca. AD 350 - 450.A redware terracotta oil lamp features a round nozzle and a sculpted lug handle, providing a comfortable grip for the user. The sunken discus at the centre of the lamp is adorned with a relief depiction of a leafy frond, evoking a sense of natural beauty and vitality. Flanking the frond are two vent holes, strategically placed to ensure proper ventilation and steady fuel consumption. The perimeter of the lamp exhibits two registers of moulded decorative motifs, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and exemplifying the Romans' penchant for artistic embellishments. Roman oil lamps served as essential sources of illumination in domestic and public spaces. They were typically fueled by olive oil or animal fat, with a wick inserted into the nozzle, which would be lit to produce a steady flame. The round nozzle allowed for controlled fuel flow and directed the light in a specific direction. These lamps played a vital role in daily life, providing light after sunset and enabling various activities to be carried out during the evening hours. They were used in private residences, public buildings, and religious spaces, illuminating gatherings, ceremonies, and rituals. The decorative elements adorning the lamps, such as the relief leafy frond and the moulded motifs, not only added aesthetic value but also potentially held symbolic meanings, aligning with Roman cultural and religious beliefs.Size: 130mm x 90mm ; Weight: 220gProvenance: Private London collection, pre-2000s.