ITEM: Oil lamp, Type Apulian and Cnidian
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Greek
PERIOD: 2nd Century B.C
DIMENSIONS: 60 mm x 60 mm x 105 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Dutch private collection, acquired between 1970 - 1990

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Greek oil lamps from the Apulian and Cnidian regions are notable for their distinctive styles and craftsmanship, reflecting the regional variations in ancient Greek ceramic art. These lamps, primarily used for illumination, also provide insights into the cultural and artistic practices of their respective areas. Both Apulian and Cnidian lamps were typically made from clay, and their designs evolved over time, influenced by local traditions and broader Greek artistic trends.

Apulian oil lamps, originating from the Apulia region in Southern Italy, are often characterized by their ornate decoration and complex shapes. These lamps typically feature intricate reliefs and painted motifs, which frequently depict mythological scenes, floral patterns, and everyday life. The Apulian artisans were skilled in the use of vibrant red-figure and black-figure techniques, allowing for detailed and expressive imagery on the lamps' surfaces. These decorative elements not only served an aesthetic purpose but also conveyed cultural narratives and beliefs, making the lamps significant both as functional objects and as carriers of artistic and symbolic meaning.

Cnidian oil lamps, from the region of Cnidus in Asia Minor, are known for their distinctive shapes and practical design features. Cnidian lamps often have a more utilitarian appearance compared to their Apulian counterparts, with simpler forms and less elaborate decoration. However, they are notable for their efficient functionality, including features like multiple nozzles to accommodate several wicks, thereby providing greater illumination. The decoration on Cnidian lamps, while generally more restrained, often includes geometric patterns and symbolic motifs that reflect local tastes and cultural influences.