Object Description
An exceptional Roman bronze oil lamp featuring a rounded body leading to a long nozzle with a triangular-shaped tip. The underside of the nozzle is adorned with a palmette design in high relief, connecting seamlessly to the body through a stepped frame. Subtle dot and curved line motifs have been carved across the top of the nozzle. A finely detailed lion mask has been intricately etched with realistic facial features and a textured mane. The mammal projects out from the side of the lamp with its mouth open showing its sharp teeth. The stepped discus is embellished with delicate leaf motifs and grooved incisions. The striking pelta-shaped reflector plate at the rear is decorated with lateral wreaths and a palmette motif. The design extends into vine-like adornments at the base which links to the body through floral terminals. Below, a three-bar caged handle with leaf-designed terminals supports the lamp, while the entire piece rests on a small, ringed foot.
Circa 1st-2nd Century AD