It dates to the second half of the 1st century CE, perhaps into 2nd century CE. Form: Broneer XXIII, Vessberg Type 10. Probably Cypriot.

This is part of a large collection of antiquities, including Egyptian faience figures, bronze figurines, scarabs and earthenware objects. They originate from Egypt, Italy, India and the Middle East.

Lamp, earthenware, mould made, Cyprus, 1st-2nd centuries CE

The lamp is discus shaped, with a projecting spout, no handle and a small filling hole (Broneer XXIII/Vessberg Type 10). The decorative element on the top is a moulded medallion featuring a bird on a branch of a pomegranate tree. Double volutes flank the short round nozzle, and the end of the volutes form ridges on the base at the join of the nozzle to the body. It has a raised concave base, obscured by an old label. It appears to have been heavily used however this charring may be from over-firing. It is covered in dark red/brown slip with a darker slip on top. The fabric is impossible to distinguish under the slip but the surface is uneven, suggesting both inclusions and a rough mould. The method of manufacture is perhaps plaster mould.

Made: Cyprus; 0 AD - 200

An old label on the base may identify the lamp's provenance: 'Grecian lamp/Found in a tomb in/Lyfcosi/BC 200'. Lyfcosi may refer to Lefkosia in Cyprus. The label needs to be removed to check for a potter's mark.

A6494-44

0 AD - 200

23 mm

63 mm