Object Description
A very fine ancient Roman terracotta oil lamp with a concave, circular discus decorated with two named, sparring gladiators. The lamp is a Loeschcke Type V, mould-made with a flat base and a ring handle adorned with grooves. The flat shoulder is decorated with ‘ovolo’ motives. The round nozzle develops seamlessly and is decorated with curving shoulder volutes, a circular wick-hole and a short, linear incision beneath the discus. A gladiatorial fight features upon the discus, composed of a Hoplomachus to the right, identifiable by his plumed helmet, short round shield, greaves and long spear. A Thraex is displayed to the left, distinguished by his short, curved sword known as a sica. The figures are named via three Latin letters: RVF, meaning Rufus or ‘red’, likely referring to his hair colour, which is inscribed beneath the foot of the left figure. TAC, inscribed by the head of the right figure, perhaps refers to Tactus meaning ‘touch’ or Tacitus meaning ‘silence’, implying exceptional strength or stealth to this individual. A small filling hole features to the discus centre. The reverse features a foot motif at the centre of the base.
Date: Circa 1st-2nd Century AD