{"title":"Antiquities","description":"Rita was fascinated with antiquities, which she sourced in the late 1970's to early 1990's from established dealers. Her collection includes Egyptian, pre-Columbian, Roman, Persian, African and Afghani items. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"ancient-pinched-terracotta-oil-lamp-rita-okrent-collectionan189","title":"Ancient Pinched Terracotta Oil Lamp - Rita Okrent Collection (AN189)","description":"\u003cp\u003eAncient pinched terra-cotta clay oil lamp. Elegant in its simplicity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin unknown. Likely Near East. More on this as we learn about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLikely to be as very old. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs seen in our Ornament Magazine advertisement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasures almost 3 inches end to end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntiquity Item 189\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853019212,"sku":"Antiquity Item 189","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/IMG_7020a.jpg?v=1620582542"},{"product_id":"roman-era-iron-decoration-for-horses-bridle-rita-okrent-collection-an041","title":"Roman-era Iron Decoration for Horse's Bridle - Rita Okrent Collection (AN041)","description":"\u003cp\u003eRare and collectible Roman-era horse decoration for browband on a horse bridle.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA browband is typically an ornamental strap or band that goes across the horse's forehead is is often adorned with decorative elements like jewels or metalwork.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGood condition. Would be a wonderful pendant. Hard to convey how spectacular this is from the photos. Decoration could be of horse and rider.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e32mm wide.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntiquity Item 041\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853158860,"sku":"Antiquity Item 041","price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/an041front.jpg?v=1602539203"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-190","title":"Off-White Ceramic Oil Lamp with Impressed Designs, Egypt - Rita Okrent Collection (AN190)","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn ancient ceramic oil lamp with impressed designs of face and adornment, from Egypt. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollected by Rita in the early 1980's.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasures 3.5 inches long by 3 inches wide. Weighs 3 3\/8 oz\/95 grams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA bit more about oil lamps:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAncient oil lamps were a crucial part of daily life in many ancient cultures, serving as a primary source of artificial light. Here's a glimpse into their fascinating history and significance:\u003cbr\u003eEarly Forms and Evolution:\u003cbr\u003e * Simple Beginnings: The earliest oil lamps were simple, utilitarian vessels, often just small bowls filled with oil. A wick, typically made of linen, papyrus, or other readily available plant fibers, was placed in the oil and lit.\u003cbr\u003e * Development of Spouts: Over time, potters began pinching one or more sides of the bowl to create a secure place for the wick to rest, leading to the development of spouts.\u003cbr\u003e * Molded Lamps: In the Greek period, lamps formed in molds became popular. This style continued through the Roman period, with some lamps being plain while others were highly decorated with scenes or inscriptions.\u003cbr\u003eMaterials and Fuels:\u003cbr\u003e * Clay: Clay was a common material for making oil lamps due to its affordability and ease of molding.\u003cbr\u003e * Other Materials: While clay was prevalent, lamps were also crafted from bronze, stone, and other materials, particularly as they became more decorative.\u003cbr\u003e * Olive Oil: The most common fuel used in the Mediterranean region was olive oil, readily available and relatively inexpensive.\u003cbr\u003eSignificance and Uses:\u003cbr\u003e * Everyday Lighting: Oil lamps provided light for homes, workshops, and public spaces, allowing daily life to continue after sunset.\u003cbr\u003e * Sacred Settings: They were also important in sacred settings, used in ceremonies, given as votive offerings, or placed in burial chambers.\u003cbr\u003e * Symbolism: Oil lamps often held symbolic meaning, representing light, warmth, and prosperity.\u003cbr\u003eExamples and Styles:\u003cbr\u003e * Herodian Lamps: These lamps, used in ancient Judea and Israel, were often simple and undecorated, reflecting the religious practices of the time.\u003cbr\u003e * Roman Lamps: Roman lamps came in a variety of styles, some plain and functional, others highly decorated with images of gods, mythological figures, or everyday scenes.\u003cbr\u003e * Byzantine Lamps: Byzantine lamps often featured Christian symbols and motifs, reflecting the rise of Christianity.\u003cbr\u003eModern Interest:\u003cbr\u003e * Collecting: Ancient oil lamps are popular among collectors, with both original artifacts and reproductions available.\u003cbr\u003e * Historical Insight: These lamps offer valuable insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and artistic styles of ancient cultures.\u003cbr\u003eWhere to Find More Information:\u003cbr\u003e * Museums: Many museums with collections of ancient artifacts display oil lamps from various periods and cultures.\u003cbr\u003e * Academic Studies: Scholarly articles and books delve into the history, typology, and cultural significance of ancient oil lamps.\u003cbr\u003eBy exploring ancient oil lamps, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of past civilizations, as well as their enduring legacy in our modern world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntiquity Item 190\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853161996,"sku":"Antiquity Item 190","price":125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/files\/FullSizeRender_551e7c60-d967-4fdb-a280-64f84668fb00.jpg?v=1769104552"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-005","title":"Ancient Egyptian Faience Seal - Rita Okrent Collection (AN005)","description":"\u003cp\u003eAncient faience seal, Egypt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSourced by Rita in Egypt in the 1970's.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasurements and additional photos coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntiquity Item 005\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853206732,"sku":"Antiquity Item 005","price":400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/ar005.jpg?v=1602644371"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-007","title":"Ancient Seal, Egypt - Rita Okrent Collection (AN007)","description":"Ancient Seal, Egypt.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePurchased in Egypt in the 1980's. 15mm tall. Very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntiquity Item 007","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853209484,"sku":"Antiquity Item 007","price":360.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/image_e99ec586-8c27-4eff-a638-0124c310a06b.jpg?v=1602644372"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-019a","title":"Antiquity Item 019a","description":"\u003cp\u003e(Item location: Left)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAncient Faience Eye of Horus Amulet, Egypt\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853261324,"sku":"Antiquity Item 019a","price":150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/ar019.jpg?v=1603527127"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-183b","title":"Antiquity Item 183b","description":"\u003cp\u003eLeft and middle - antiquity item 183 - ancient Roman figure and fibula  $550\/  right  - Ancient Persia $350  ancient Roman ring part of first group - not shown .  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Collected in Cairo in the 1980’s by Rita.\u003cbr\u003eAncient Roman figure, bronze\u003cbr\u003eAntiquity Item 183b\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853263820,"sku":"Antiquity Item 183b","price":600.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/files\/E98EC095-BC5C-45DA-A7F0-E87FA77E247A_1_105_c.jpg?v=1760476180"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-157a","title":"Large Egyptian Stone Scarab Amulet, with Hole for Stringing - Rita Okrent Collection(AN157a)","description":"\u003cp\u003eScarab amulet from Egypt. Hole at top for stringing.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvenance: Rita's travels to Egypt in the 1980's. Sourced in Cairo or Alexandria in the 1980's.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAge of this scarab is unknown.  It is in good condition and may not be more than 100 years old. Hole is new. Has wear but is very difficult to be certain of age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"ILfuVd\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"hgKElc\"\u003eScarabs were popular amulets and impression seals in ancient Egypt, and were considered to be a symbol for good luck. a protector of evil, symbol of rebirth, regeneration, and transformation.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Antiquity Item 157a\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853315724,"sku":"Antiquity Item 157a","price":175.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/0F2DFDCD-0332-46C8-B6D3-9B251EE66B01_1_105_c.jpg?v=1645552784"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-156d","title":"Ancient Bronze Hair or Clothing Pins, North Africa - Rita Okrent Collection (AN156d)","description":"\u003cp\u003eVery old bronze hair, hat or clothing pins, medieval or Roman-era.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSourced in Egypt in the 1980's. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasure 9.5-11.5 cm \/ 3.8-4.4 inches. Weigh 17.1 grams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnusual and very beautiful. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSold as a group. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs seen in our Ornament Magazine advertisement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntiquity Item 156d\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853427660,"sku":"Antiquity Item 156d","price":120.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/DC5EB748-8D15-4822-8A54-7FD33E46AC19.jpg?v=1672077978"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-117a","title":"Ancient Glass Seal, Roman or Older- Rita Okrent Collection (AN117a)","description":"Ancient Glass Seal, Roman or Earlier.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntiquity Item 117a","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853432076,"sku":"Antiquity Item 117a","price":370.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/generated_file_0.26816300_1602641820.jpg?v=1602698263"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-117c","title":"Ancient Stone Cylinder Seal from Egypt - Rita Okrent Collection (AN117c)","description":"\u003cp\u003eAncient stone cylinder seal with a carved depiction of an animal on each side, possibly a deer, as it appears to have horns.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSourced by Rita in Cairo in the 1980's. Could have been Israelite or from other parts of the ancient Levant.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasures approximately 2.8 cm  (1.1 inches) in length, 1.6 cm (.65cm) in width.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStill working on getting more information on this item (approximate age etc).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRita and David had this priced at $1000.00 (after appraisal and authentication as ancient).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAntiquity Item 117c\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853432268,"sku":"Antiquity Item 117c","price":200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/image_5185fe47-5436-49c4-a6d2-b243b2db05a4.jpg?v=1602644376"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-138c","title":"Short Strand of Mixed, Mainly Ancient Jet Beads - Rita Okrent Collection (AN138c)","description":"\u003cp\u003eShort strand of mainly ancient jet beads and amulets (some may not be jet but similar in appearance).1 bead has flaking and is thus damaged, four appear to be very old and interesting ancient amulets. 2 spacers. 8 beads \/ amulets total - 19+ grams of beads.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese beads may be from ancient Britain as Rita sourced most of her jet beads in England during her lifetime.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJet is a type of lignite, the lowest rank of coal, and is a gemstone. Unlike many gemstones, jet is not a mineral, but is rather a mineraloid. It is derived from wood that has changed under extreme pressure\u003c\/span\u003e. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe use of jet jewelry dates back to Neolithic times in Ancient Britain. The Ancient Romans later adopted and popularized this gem material not only for ornamental use but for its purported magical properties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntiquity Item 138c\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Beads","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853434188,"sku":"Antiquity Item 138c","price":120.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/files\/E10B6530-A032-4EE6-9C21-DFEA6ADCD61F_1_105_c.jpg?v=1691958674"},{"product_id":"antiquity-item-119a","title":"Pre-Columbian Whistle - Rita Okrent Collection (AN119a)","description":"Pre-Columbian Incan or Mayan Whistle.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ehttp:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/1988\/03\/29\/science\/complex-whistles-found-to-play-key-roles-in-inca-and-maya-life.html\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntiquity Item 119a","brand":"Objects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45853485132,"sku":"Antiquity Item 119a","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/products\/IMG_8794.jpg?v=1602644373"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2352\/4865\/collections\/antiquities.jpg?v=1730318383","url":"https:\/\/ritaokrent.com\/collections\/antiquities.oembed?page=3","provider":"Rita Okrent Collection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}