Ca. 450-550 AD.
A moldmade red ware oil lamp, a remarkable example of the Hayes II A type. This lamp boasts a solid lug handle and a recessed tondo, adorned with a left-facing rooster depicted in a walking motion. The discus features two filling holes encircled by a ridge, which extends around the nozzle to form a wide channel. The rounded nozzle itself is fitted with a large wick hole for optimal functionality. The shoulder of this lamp is richly embellished with a pattern of rhombs alternated with quatrefoil designs, adding further to its aesthetic appeal. Oil lamps were an essential element of daily life in the Roman world, serving as a vital source of illumination during the hours of darkness. They were used in a wide range of settings, from private homes to public spaces such as temples and forums. The production of oil lamps was a significant industry, and the use of molds like this one allowed for the efficient creation of standardized designs. For a similar type, see The Getty Museum, Inventory Number 83.AQ.377.274.
Size: L:130mm / W:80mm ; 146g
Provenance: Private London collection, pre-2000s.