Terracotta oil lamp

3rd–4th century CE
Not on view
Vessberg Type 18. Unpierced handle. Mold-made. Discus: naked man facing front but moving to right, holding large bulbous jar in lowered right hand and with a small amphora below raised left arm; around edge of discus, close-set, short radiating lines. Two filling holes at sides. On broad shoulder, stylized vines with many grapes. Rounded nozzle with large wick hole. On undefined, concave base, Greek letters in relief:

Intact. some sooting around nozzle

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Terracotta oil lamp
  • Period: Late Imperial
  • Date: 3rd–4th century CE
  • Culture: Roman, Cypriot
  • Medium: Terracotta
  • Dimensions: Overall: 1 1/4 x 3 in. (3.2 x 7.6 cm)
  • Classification: Terracottas
  • Credit Line: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
  • Object Number: 74.51.2240
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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