For your consideration is a Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp with a Griffin Depiction, circa 2nd Century A.D., mold made volute lamp, nice discus, handle and nozzle. Provenance: the Owen D. Mort, Jr. Collection. Owen David Mort was an American engineer who amassed an impressive collection throughout his worldwide travels. His collection has included art, artifacts and other historical items from which he has donated to museums at the University of Utah and the Snite Museum of Art at the University of Notre Dame, including ancient Afghan, Indian, Mughal, Persian and Far Asian artifacts. The discus features two filling holes encircled by a ridge. The rounded oblong nozzle itself is fitted with a large wick hole for optimal functionality. The shoulder of this lamp is richly embellished with a design pattern adding further to its aesthetic appeal. Oil lamps were an essential element of daily life in the Roman world, serving as a vital source of illumination during the hours of darkness. Oil lamps were used in a wide range of settings, from private homes to public spaces such as temples and forums. The production of oil lamps was a significant industry, and the use of molds like this one allowed for the efficient creation of standardized designs. Oil lamps offered an alternative to candlelight. The most common material used was pottery, and had only one wick. The oil used as fuel in the ancient Mediterranean was primarily olive oil, but other possible fuels included sesame oil, nut oil, castor oil, and other plant oils. This terracotta oil lamp is in amazingly preserved overall condition, slight chipping noted especially on the handle. Original reddish appearance has faded to grayish red/white color. Measures 3.5"L x 2"W x 1.75"H at the handle.*