Description:

Roman, Tunisia, ca. 4th to 5th century CE. Ancient Roman redware pottery oil lamp, found in Tunisia. Mold made with large opening at spout and two vent holes, adorned with a finely delineated Chi Rho symbol (the first two letters of Christ's name in Greek) in the central discus that is encircled by a band of laurel, which in turn is encircled by intricately detailed and varied geometric decoration. Lamps such as this were filled with olive oil in Ancient times and lit by means of a thick wick, which protruded from the nozzle end. The flickering light of the oil lamp was man's primary means of illuminating the darkness in ancient times, long before gas-lamps and modern electricity. Lovely example! 5-1/2"L x 3-1/4"W x 2-1/8"H

Provenance: Ex-Harlan J. Berk, Chicago, IL

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

  • Condition: Repair at spout. Stable crack on one side. Else intact and excellent condition.

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October 23, 2014 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000