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Terracotta oil lamp

2nd century BCE
Not on view
Mold-made, with applied loop handle and a long nozzle, ending in a triangular spout around the large wick hole. On discus: central, large filling hole, surrounded by three evenly-spaced smaller holes; around discus, broad collar, flaring upward. On shoulder at sides and under handle, a series of raised oblongs or diamonds, each decorated within with similar smaller shapes, interspersed with small, raised dots. On nozzle, a spiral on each side and a long fluted object (a vase?) on the top. Raised base ring and flat base.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Terracotta oil lamp
  • Period: Hellenistic
  • Date: 2nd century BCE
  • Culture: Greek, Cypriot
  • Medium: Terracotta
  • Dimensions: Overall: 1 3/4 x 5 1/4 in. (4.4 x 13.3 cm)
  • Classification: Terracottas
  • Credit Line: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
  • Object Number: 74.51.2137
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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