Ancient Roman Terracotta Erotic Oil Lamp 1st century A.D.
$1,250.00
Or Best OfferAuthentic ancient Roman red-slip terracotta erotic oil lamp, circa 1st century A.D. The central discus is molded with two people in a sexual act on a couch, with the filling hole pierced below, framed by two raised encircling bands and an elaborate nozzle adorned with volutes pierced with a wick hole mouth and an oval ring handle at the back. On a flat base incised with an oval groove.
NOTE: Most Roman terracotta oil lamps are made of low-fire clay. However, this example is superior because it's made of high-temperature fire red-slip terracotta with a buff body.
PROVENANCE: Ex-private Canadian collection
CONDITION: The lamp is still in good condition considering its age, which is around 2000 years, except for a clean break in the handle that has been glued. However, the lamp is still in one piece and showing signs of age and usage, with a nice dark patina. There are also some traces of wear and areas of earthen encrustation. The nozzle has been burned black from its original use.
MEASUREMENTS:
Length: 11.3 cm (4.45 inches)
Width: 7.3 cm (2 .87 inches)
Height including handle: 3.5 cm (1.38 inches)
