Ancient Imperial Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp 1st-early 2nd century A.D.

Authentic ancient Imperial Roman terracotta oil lamp, 1st-early 2nd century A.D. The lamp has a central discus that bears a molded head of Medusa. The filling hole is located below the discus and is surrounded by three raised encircling bands. The lamp has an elaborate long nozzle adorned with volutes and pierced with a wick-hole mouth. Additionally, the lamp has two extended side lugs on either side in the form of griffin heads and an oval ring handle at the back. The base of the lamp is flat and incised with an oval groove.
Its design and decorative style closely resemble those of lamps from Knidos. These lamps usually feature an extension of the nozzle that spirals into a decorative animal head, often a horse, but sometimes a griffin.
PROVENANCE: Ex-private Canadian collection
CONDITION: The lamp, which is estimated to be about 2000 years old, is in good condition despite showing signs of wear and age, with areas of earthen encrustation. The body has scratches due to the unprofessional removal of the encrustation.
MEASUREMENTS:
Length: 12 cm (4.72 inches)
Width: 10 cm (3.94 inches)
Height including handle: 4 cm (1.57 inches)