Byzantine Terracotta Oil Lamp

7TH CENTURY A.D.

3 1/2 in. (83 grams, 89 mm).

Slipper-shaped in plan with spike handle, raised rim to the filler hole, broad shoulder with raised radiating bars, stub nozzle, low basal ring, with inked inscription to verso which reads: '11-6-1963 / Front the old / ROMAN CITY / SEBASTIA / SAMARIA'. [No Reserve]

Provenance

From a late Hampshire gentleman's collection, formed from the 1960s.

Literature

Cf. De Vincenz, A., ‘Ceramic Vessels and Oil Lamps from the Burial Cave at ‘En Lavan, Nahal Refa’im’ in Atiqot, 98, 2020, pp.103-122, fig.8 no.6, for similar.

Footnotes

The shape of the lamp is similar to that of the candlestick-type lamps. The form of the channel and the handle point to a late date, i.e., the end of the 7th or the beginning of the 8th century A.D.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

LOT 1353