Holy Land Pottery Oil Lamp

Umayyad Empire, Early Byzantine Period, c. 600-800AD, Holy Land.

This gorgeous mold-made terracotta oil lamp exemplifies the craftsmanship and symbolic artistry of the Early Byzantine and Umayyad periods. Its pointed oval body features an angled shoulder adorned with delicate laurel-wreath designs, a motif symbolizing victory and eternity. A small, practical handle adds balance and functionality to the design.

At the top, the large filling hole (discus) is bordered by a pronounced rim, encircled by additional ridges that extend onto the nozzle and wick hole. These ridges are beautifully decorated with a linear and dotted relief pattern, possibly representing a palm branch, which carries cultural and spiritual significance. The lamp rests on a convex base with a slightly raised ring foot, ensuring stability. Residual soot near the wick hole offers a poignant reminder of its practical use in antiquity. Terracotta oil lamps like this were indispensable in both sacred and domestic settings throughout the Holy Land. They were illuminated by a simple wick made from plant fiber or linen, placed in a reservoir filled with castor or sesame oil. The decorative elements often reflected religious or cultural themes, making these lamps both utilitarian and deeply symbolic.

Examples of this type have been extensively recovered from archaeological sites such as Khirbet el-Mefjer near Ain el-Sultan, Jericho. These lamps first appeared at the beginning of the 7th century AD and became widespread during the Umayyad Empire (c. 661–750 AD), reflecting the profound cultural and material changes brought by the Muslim conquest of the region. This exquisite artifact bridges utility and artistry, offering a captivating glimpse into the lives, traditions, and spiritual practices of ancient civilizations in the Holy Land.

Excellent condition. Age-related light wear. Rich earthen deposits. Gorgeous patina. Size approx. 10,8cm x 5,6cm x 5,0cm.

Provenance: Danish private collection. 

For a similar example see:

Lamp, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 61.150.3 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/451652)

References and further reading:

Light and Life: Ancient Christian Oil Lamps of the Holyland (Studium Biblicum S.) Stanislao Loffreda, Franciscan Printing Press, 2001.