Antique Medieval Islamic Double-Wicked Bronze Oil Lamp Khorasan Seljuk Seljuq 12th C

This is an exquisite example of an authentic antique double-wicked oil lamp from the Khorasan Seljuk/Seljuq Turks Period during the 12th century AD (6th century AH "Hijri"). This lamp is made of cast bronze and features a rounded body that sits on a spreading trumpet foot. It has two spreading spouts that project from the front and a hinged domed lid. The lamp handle is loop-shaped, and an integral bird perches above it. The bird is delicately crafted and adds a touch of elegance to the lamp. 

The top of the lamp's body is adorned with intricate engravings of running animals, birds, and a scrolling vine. The bands of benedictory Arabic Kufic inscriptions add to the lamp's historical significance, making it an exceptional piece worthy of admiration.

CONDITION: As I examine the lamp, I can't help but notice the beautiful patina that has developed over the years. The scratches and marks on the lamp's surface tell a story of its long history and the many hands that have touched it. The top of the lamp, in particular, bears evidence of its age - it is riddled with cracks that have been repaired with glue, a testament to the care and effort put into preserving it. Overall, the lamp exudes a sense of character and charm that can only come from years of use and attention.

MEASUREMENTS:

Overall length: 14.5 cm (5.70866 in).

Height of lamp, including bird finial on the handle: 13 cm (5 1/8 in)

REFERENCES: "Islamic metalwork from the Iranian world, 8-18th centuries" by Assadullah Souren Melikian-Chirvani, from Victoria and Albert Museum Catalog.

NOTE: The Seljuqs, a Turkic dynasty of Central Asian nomadic origins, became the new rulers of the eastern Islamic lands following their defeat of the powerful Ghaznavids at the Battle of Dandanakan (1040). By 1055, the Seljuqs had reached and taken over Baghdad, which ended Buyid rule, and established themselves as the new protectors of the Abbasid caliphate and Sunni Islam. Within fifty years, the Seljuqs created a vast though relatively short-lived empire encompassing Iran, Iraq, and Anatolia. By the close of the eleventh century, as the Seljuq realm became troubled due to internal conflicts and the division of the realm among heirs, the empire dissolved into separate territories governed by different branches of the dynasty. The main branch of the Seljuq house, the so-called Great Seljuqs, maintained control over Iran. Under the Seljuq sultanate, Iran enjoyed a period of material and cultural prosperity, and the ingenuity in architecture and the arts during this period had a notable impact on later artistic developments.