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Discover a fascinating collection of five ancient terracotta oil lamps dating back to the Near East and Eastern Mediterranean regions, spanning from the 3rd millennium B.C. to the 9th century A.D. The ensemble features a variety of styles, each with its own unique characteristics.
The Levantine open bowl-type lamp, crafted in the 3rd-2nd millennium B.C., showcases a hand-formed design with a pinched spout and rounded profile, offering a glimpse into ancient craftsmanship. Meanwhile, the Near Eastern pinched-spout lamp from around 1200 B.C. is made of coarse red clay and features a wide central fill hole, exemplifying the artistry of the era.
Moving forward in time, a Roman oil lamp from the 1st–2nd century A.D. boasts a flared spout and a rosette-stamped base, highlighting Roman ingenuity in design. Another Roman circular oil lamp dating back to the 2nd–3rd century A.D. presents deeply moulded floral decorations in high relief around the fill hole, showcasing intricate detailing.
Finally, a larger Early Islamic (Arab) lamp from the 7th–9th century A.D. is adorned with incised geometric motifs on the upper surface, reflecting the artistic influences of the time. This diverse collection is believed to have been collected in the Middle East, including regions such as the Dead Sea and Syria, during the 1960s, adding a layer of historical significance to these ancient artefacts.
Do not miss the opportunity to own these remarkable pieces of history, available for auction at Duggleby Auctioneers.