Lamp

Unknown

late 11th–first half of 12th century · Stonepaste; glazed · Islamic Art

A stem supports an open reservoir that would have held burning oil and a wick for the lamp. Soaked in the oil and lighted, the wick would transport the fuel to the flame. Traces of burning are still visible on the lamp’s lip. Functionality and adornment were both considered in the manufacture of this lamp. The stem (partly restored), the handle, and ridged base would have allowed for an easy transport of a high light source, while the thumb-rest in the shape of a ring with a small disk on top would have been ornamental. It recalls similar-shaped elements in small stonepaste bowls of the eleventh and twelfth century, suggesting that they were likely produced in the same ateliers.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 11th–first half of 12th century

Medium

Stonepaste; glazed

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Theodore M. Davis Collection, Bequest of Theodore M. Davis, 1915