Byzantine Oil Lamp, 5th Century – c. 400 to 500 CE – Byzantine Empire – 10/10/23 Auction Free Shipping Get To Buy

Measurements: 4.1 x 2.3 x 1.8 inches

This ancient oil lamp dates back to around the 5th century CE, during the time of the Byzantine Empire, and was recovered in the Middle East according to provenance papers. The base of this lamp includes a maker’s mark, in the form of an abstract floral pattern.

Lamps like these were household items in ancient times, and were mass produced by craftsman with reusable molds. Similar to coins, they are relatively common finds today as a result. People used these lamps by pouring oil into the large fill hole on top, sticking a cloth wick through the spout, and lighting the end of the wick. The lamp would then provide light until the wick used up all the oil inside.

This is part of a group of lamps that were previously part of a collector’s estate in Vero Beach, Florida, and has been acquired by History Hoard at auction. The lamps had been in the Unites States for at least two to three decades prior.

All purchases include a Certificate of Authenticity. You will receive the exact item in this photo.