Ca. 1-100 AD.
A terracotta oil lamp boasting a distinctive reddish hue and a charming, recessed tondo adorned with a dolphin in front of the rudder. The dolphin, a recurring motif in ancient Roman art, was often associated with Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, and represented good luck and protection during sea voyages. The lamp is equipped with a looped handle to the rear and a frontal round-tipped spout, allowing for easy handling and use. The flat base provides a sturdy foundation for the lamp, ensuring stability during use. In ancient Roman society, oil lamps were an essential source of artificial light and played a significant role in daily life. They were used for practical purposes, such as providing light for reading, writing, and cooking, as well as for decorative and symbolic purposes, such as funerary offerings and religious ceremonies. The use of oil lamps in ancient Rome extended beyond the practicalities of illumination, as they often served as a medium for artistic expression and cultural exchange. For a similar lamp, see the Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum, item 2013.HB.62.
Size: L:105mm / W:75mm ; 65g
Provenance: Property of a London Ancient Art gallery, formerly acquired in Monaco.