Artifact – Antiquity – Terracotta Oil Lamp – Lion Bust – Roman Empire

Dating: Circa 150 – 250 AD Origin: Eastern Mediterranean (probably Syria or Roman Egypt) Provenance: Private collection, Auvergne – Haute-Loire Authority in images – The lion in medallion as symbolic guardian of light This Roman oil lamp, molded in light terracotta, is related to the oriental Bussière D III to D IV types, common in the workshops of Syria or Egypt between the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. It is a model with a pierced vertical handle, a simple spout, a circular medallion and a border with radiating decoration. The medallion represents the bust of a lion, facing right, with a raised mane and closed mouth, in a frontal and frozen posture. More than a narrative scene, this isolated zoomorphic representation acts as an apotropaic figure: the lion is perceived as a protective entity, a symbol of strength and surveillance, particularly in funerary or domestic spaces. The radiant frieze surrounding the disc accentuates the solar and defensive symbolism of the object. The base is smooth, unmarked, and the beige paste has a beautiful buried patina, with discreet mineral deposit. Two orifices are visible on the disc (filling and ventilation). The spout is slightly blackened by combustion, testifying to actual use. This type of lamp with an animal medallion was widespread throughout the eastern Mediterranean, both for everyday and religious uses. Description Material: Light beige terracotta, homogeneous buried patina Shape: Rounded, perforated vertical handle, simple spout Decoration: • Medallion depicting a lion bust facing right • Radiating frieze around the edge of the disc • Disc with two functional holes Technique: Bivalve casting Condition Very good condition Legible and clear decoration Slight traces of soot on the spout, stable surface Dimensions Length: 9.7 cm Consulted bibliography Bussière (2000): Lampes antiques d'Algérie, Montagnac Bailey (1980): A Catalogue of the Lamps in the British Museum, London Deneauve (1969): Lampes de Carthage, Paris Chrzanovski (2006): Lumière! L'éclairage dans l'Antiquité, Milan Loeschcke (1919): Lampen aus Vindonissa, Zurich ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY.