Byzantine Terracotta Oil Lamp with Geometric Decoration

GBP 75.00

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Object Description

A Byzantine moulded terracotta oil lamp produced in the Holy Land, possibly by the Samaritans. It features an ovoid body with a central filling hole marked by an encircling groove. A raised ridge frames the filling hole and extends towards the tapering nozzle, forming a channel. The shoulders are decorated with a geometric design in relief. The design is composed of a herringbone pattern to either side of the channel, followed by two square vignettes, each containing a wheel-like motif with a dot in each corner. The remaining field is filled with diagonal lines and a central column of chevrons. A further vertical raised ridge enriches the channel in the middle. The rear of the lamp features a conical knobbed handle, now unfortunately chipped. The reverse is flat and remains undecorated.

Date: Circa 5th-7th century AD

Object History

Ex Jacob Shacham collection, Caesarea.

Object Condition

Repaired with a long vertical crack visible along the middle of the reverse as well as the channel. Earthly encrustations to the surface.

Object Details

  • dimensions
    W:5.6 x H:3.3 x D:10.1 centimeters

Dealer Opening Times

By appointment only.

Dealer Contact

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+44 (0)208 364 4565
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+44 (0)7833231322
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Dealer Location

The Gallery
Trent Park Equestrian Centre
Eastpole Farm House, Bramley Road
Oakwood, N14 4UW, United Kingdom

St James's Ancient Art
10 Charles II Street, Ground Floor
St James
London
SW1Y 4AA

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