Object Description
A fine Roman terracotta oil lamp featuring a large decorated discus and an angular volute nozzle. The discus is carefully decorated with a wreath of vines, leaves, and bunches of grapes, tied at the top. Two large leaves flank the filling hole in the centre of the discus. The grapes have been delineated with rows of circles and much attention has been paid to the detailing of the leaves. The whole discus is encompassed with encircling grooves, further enriching this piece. The circular body descends into a dramatically angled nozzle, with scrolling volute spines. The reverse is undecorated and an incised ring is used for the base.
This lamp belongs to the Loeschcke type 1C, characterised by its round circular body, wide nozzle, and volute spines.
Date: Circa 1st Century AD