Off-White Ceramic Oil Lamp with Impressed Designs, Egypt - Rita Okrent Collection (AN190)

An ancient ceramic oil lamp with impressed designs of face and adornment, from Egypt. 

Collected by Rita in the early 1980's.

Measures 3.5 inches long by 3 inches wide. Weighs 3 3/8 oz/95 grams.

A bit more about oil lamps:

Ancient 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:
Early Forms and Evolution:
 * 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.
 * 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.
 * 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.
Materials and Fuels:
 * Clay: Clay was a common material for making oil lamps due to its affordability and ease of molding.
 * Other Materials: While clay was prevalent, lamps were also crafted from bronze, stone, and other materials, particularly as they became more decorative.
 * Olive Oil: The most common fuel used in the Mediterranean region was olive oil, readily available and relatively inexpensive.
Significance and Uses:
 * Everyday Lighting: Oil lamps provided light for homes, workshops, and public spaces, allowing daily life to continue after sunset.
 * Sacred Settings: They were also important in sacred settings, used in ceremonies, given as votive offerings, or placed in burial chambers.
 * Symbolism: Oil lamps often held symbolic meaning, representing light, warmth, and prosperity.
Examples and Styles:
 * Herodian Lamps: These lamps, used in ancient Judea and Israel, were often simple and undecorated, reflecting the religious practices of the time.
 * 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.
 * Byzantine Lamps: Byzantine lamps often featured Christian symbols and motifs, reflecting the rise of Christianity.
Modern Interest:
 * Collecting: Ancient oil lamps are popular among collectors, with both original artifacts and reproductions available.
 * Historical Insight: These lamps offer valuable insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and artistic styles of ancient cultures.
Where to Find More Information:
 * Museums: Many museums with collections of ancient artifacts display oil lamps from various periods and cultures.
 * Academic Studies: Scholarly articles and books delve into the history, typology, and cultural significance of ancient oil lamps.
By 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.

Antiquity Item 190