Lamp

Unknown

5th–6th century · Earthenware; molded · Islamic Art

Small earthenware lamps, made from double molds, were the most commonly used source of light in Coptic Egypt. A wick produced from plant fiber or linen fabric was placed in a reservoir filled with oil, generally castor or sesame oil, and illuminated. This red earthenware lamp is decorated with a horse running, enclosed by a border of concentric circles, leaves, scrolls, and a pellet at each end.

Artist

Unknown

Date

5th–6th century

Medium

Earthenware; molded

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1927