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Lamp with cross
Byzantine, Cyprus
Early Byzantine Period
4th–early 5th century A.D.
Medium/Technique
Terracotta
Dimensions
Length: 7.3 cm (2 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Museum purchase with funds donated by subscription
Accession Number72.235
CollectionsEurope, Ancient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Lighting devices
DescriptionA mold-made oil lamp with a large, concave discus and narrow sloping rim leading to a short, tapering nozzle. Stump handle with slightly pinched sides. It has two fill holes in its center and one larger wick hole in the nozzle. The center of the discus is decorated with a Greek cross in relief with a small circle marking the intersection of the arms of the cross. Small circles fill in the gaps between the arms of the cross. The rim is decorated with an interior band of palm-fronds and an exterior row of small circles. The tip of the nozzle shows evidence of burning.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with General Luigi Palma di Cesnola (from Cyprus); May 16, 1872: purchased by MFA from General Luigi Palma di Cesnola for
$ 1,704.39 (this figure is the total price for MFA 72.1-72.473 and 72.4871-72.4900)
$ 1,704.39 (this figure is the total price for MFA 72.1-72.473 and 72.4871-72.4900)