ITEM: Oil lamp with cross
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Roman, Christian
PERIOD: 3rd - 4th Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 31 mm x 54 mm x 76 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex German private collection, acquired between 1980 - 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.

Christian oil lamps from the Roman period are notable artifacts that reflect the early development of Christianity and its integration into Roman daily life. These lamps, made from materials like terracotta, glass, or bronze, were used to provide light and were often found in domestic and funerary contexts. Unlike their pagan counterparts, Christian oil lamps typically feature Christian symbols and iconography, marking a significant shift in religious practices and artistic expression during the late Roman Empire. Common Christian motifs include the Chi-Rho (a monogram of Christ), the fish symbol (Ichthys), and biblical scenes or figures, which were employed to subtly indicate the owner's faith.

The design and production of Christian oil lamps reveal much about the transition from pagan to Christian symbols in Roman art. Early Christian lamps often incorporated traditional lamp forms but were adorned with symbols and inscriptions that reflected Christian beliefs and values. This adaptation of existing forms allowed Christians to practice their faith discreetly, especially during periods of persecution. As Christianity became more accepted, the symbolic designs on oil lamps became more overt and elaborate, showcasing a growing confidence and influence within the Roman Empire. These lamps were not only practical tools for illumination but also served as expressions of faith and identity.

Christian oil lamps also played a role in funerary practices and early Christian burials. In many cases, lamps were placed in graves or tombs as part of the burial rites, symbolizing the light of Christ and the promise of eternal life. The presence of Christian symbols on these lamps in funerary contexts highlights the evolving religious beliefs and the importance of Christian rituals in the afterlife.