Holy Land Pottery Oil Lamp

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

This charming mold-made terracotta oil lamp is a good example of the functional yet artistically significant lighting devices used throughout the Holy Land in antiquity. Featuring a pointed oval body, a prominent conical handle, and a large central filling hole (discus) framed by a pronounced rim, this lamp embodies the transitional artistic styles of the Early Byzantine and Umayyad periods. Raised ridges extend onto the elongated nozzle, guiding the wick to its opening. The underside is left mostly unadorned, except for a circular base ring forming a raised cross motif, a subtle but significant religious symbol.

Oil lamps such as this were essential household items and were also widely used in temples, churches, synagogues, and mosques. A wick made from plant fiber or linen fabric would have been placed inside the reservoir, which was typically filled with castor or sesame oil, providing an efficient source of illumination. Clay lamps from the Holy Land often bore decorative elements reflecting religious and cultural influences, making them invaluable artifacts for understanding daily life, faith, and artistic traditions of the time.

Lamps of this type have been extensively recovered from Khirbet el-Mefjer, near Ain el-Sultan, Jericho, and were widely produced and circulated beginning in the 7th century AD. They became particularly prevalent during the Umayyad Empire (661–750 AD), marking a significant shift in material culture following the Muslim conquest of the region.

A beautifully preserved and historically significant relic, this oil lamp is a testament to the enduring traditions of the Holy Land and its evolving artistic and cultural landscape.

Moderate condition. Age-related heavy wear. Cracks and fractures. Firing flaws. Repaired. Nozzle had even traces of soot. Fine patina. Size approx. 9,8cm x 7,7cm x 4,5cm.

Provenance: Danish private collection. 

References and further reading:

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