Hellenistic Ptolemaic Period Pottery Oil Lamp

Hellenistic Period, Ptolemaic Dynasty, c. 300–100 BC, Naukratis, Egypt

A fascinating and well-preserved example of a mould-made grey-ware pottery oil lamp from the Ptolemaic period, crafted in the dynamic Greco-Egyptian cultural milieu of Naukratis. The lamp features a globular body that curves inward toward a rounded shoulder, leading to an inward-sloping rim encircling a small central filling hole. A raised ridge neatly frames the opening, emphasizing the careful and symmetrical design.

The lamp is supported on a sharply turned base with a slightly concave disc foot. To one side, a vertically pierced lug handle provides functional utility, while a short, flat-topped nozzle projects outward, terminating in a rounded end with an oval wick hole—characteristics consistent with Howland Type 25.

Composed of a grey, reduced Nile silt fabric and coated in a dark slip, the lamp exemplifies the technical and aesthetic qualities of Nile Valley ceramic production during the Hellenistic period. The dark, burnished surface and balanced proportions reflect both local Egyptian techniques and Hellenistic design influences, which blended Greek forms with native traditions under the Ptolemaic regime.

Oil lamps such as this were essential objects in both domestic and ritual contexts, used for illumination and sometimes offerings. This piece, with its elegant form and subtle details, offers a compelling insight into daily life and material culture in Ptolemaic Egypt—a time of cosmopolitan exchange, innovation, and hybrid identity.

Good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Heavy encrusted patina and rich earthen deposits. Nozzle had even traces of soot. Size approx. 10,3cm x 7,8cm x 3,3cm.

Provenance: Swedish private collection.

For a similar example see:

Oil-lamp, The British Museum, Accession Number: 1987.291                                      (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/X__2184)