65. Roman Bronze Oil Lamp

C. 4th - 5th Century A.D.

A Roman bronze oil-lamp on a raised foot. This type of lamp dates to the latter part of the Roman Empire.

This lamp would have originally sat on a bronze stand, possibly with other lamps, creating a floor standing lighting fixture.

Condition: Reflector missing. Handle replaced. This lamp was obviously buried in damp conditions, hence the surface patination.

Dimensions: 15.5cm x 6cm, approx.

Provenance: Ex. private collection, UK.

£300.00

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The Late Empire (3rd – 6th Century AD)

As the Roman empire transitioned into the Byzantine period, bronze lamp designs changed. The shapes became longer with the nozzles increasingly upturned, and artisans often included multiple nozzles to allow several wicks to burn at once for brighter illumination.

Roman oil lamps are one of the most diverse and popular antiquities for sale to collectors.