Ancient Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp with Gladiator Head

Object Description

A fine Ancient Roman terracotta oil lamp featuring a decorated concave discus and a rounded-volute nozzle. The discuss depicts the helmeted head of a gladiator. The richly decorated helmet, known as the galea, features its characteristic long crest which shows exceptional retention of details. The image is framed by three concentric circles and the lamp’s two volutes are placed between the discuss and nozzle. The small filling hole can be found to the helmet’s right and the reverse features the incused letters L.M.C which indicate the manufacturer. This lamp belongs to the Loeschcke type IV, which is characterised by a narrow, rounded nozzle flanked by volute-spines, round shoulders and the absence of a handle.

Date: Circa 1st – early 2nd century AD
Period: Emperor Tiberius – Trajan

Object History

Ex J.L. collection, 2021; previously from the collection of Arno Jumpertz, Leverkusen, Germany, 1924-1984. Most of the collection was exhibited at Neus museum, 1985.

Object Condition

Fine condition, signs of wear over the surface consistent with age.

Object Details