Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp with Erotic Scene

Object Description

An ancient Roman, terracotta, oil lamp, featuring a decorated concave discuss and a rounded volute nozzle. The discuss depicts an erotic scene between a man and a woman, lying on a bed. The woman is depicted reclining on her back upon a pillow, with her left arm holding onto the edge of the bed. The man is kneeling in front of her, lifting her left leg whilst leaning forward and facing her in close proximity. Surrounding the discus is a twisted cord border. The lamp’s two large volutes are placed between the discuss and nozzle. The reverse features three concentric circles. This lamp belongs to the Loeschcke type IV, characterised by rounded shoulders and nozzle. Dates for this style of lamp are given from the reign of Vespasian, circa AD 69, to Hadrian, circa AD 138.

Date: Circa 1st-2nd century AD

Object History

From an old German collection, 1960s onwards.

Object Condition

Fine condition. Scratches and wear to the surface but scene still clear. Blackening to the nozzle and sides from use in antiquity. Label residue and markings of the old collection to the base.

Object Details