Vente 3 Ancient Art - Auction 3
Par Your Antiquarian
29.6.24
Apartado de Correos 521, El Campello 03560, Espagne
Ancient Art at the best price respecting and strictly complying with the laws of heritage protection and UNESCO heritage norms. Affordable in-house shipping.

LOT 76:

Roman oil lamp depicting a erotic scene, Type Bussière B IV 2


Prix de départ:
180
Prix estimé :
€400 - €600
Commission de la maison de ventes: 8%
tags:

Roman oil lamp depicting a erotic scene, Type Bussière B IV 2
ITEM: Oil lamp depicting a erotic scene, Type Bussière B IV 2
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st - 2nd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 28 mm x 75 mm x 107 mm
CONDITION: Good condition, repaired
PROVENANCE: Ex French private collection, Montauban, acquired between 1980 – 1990.
PARALLEL: DENEAUVE, J., Lampes de Carthage, Pl. L, Fig. 481

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

Roman oil lamps are fascinating artifacts that provide valuable insights into the daily life, customs, and artistic tastes of ancient Rome. These lamps were commonly used for illumination in households, public spaces, and religious settings during the Roman Empire, which spanned from approximately 27 BCE to 476 CE. While many Roman oil lamps featured traditional decorative motifs such as geometric patterns, floral designs, or mythological scenes, some lamps depicted erotic imagery, reflecting the Romans' fascination with sexuality and sensuality.

The depiction of erotic scenes on Roman oil lamps was not uncommon, and such imagery served various purposes. In some cases, these lamps were used as decorative items in private residences, where they could be displayed as conversation pieces or objects of curiosity. The presence of erotic imagery on oil lamps may have also served a practical function, as the lighting of lamps during intimate gatherings or romantic encounters could create a mood of intimacy and sensuality.

The artistic portrayal of erotic scenes on Roman oil lamps reveals the broader cultural attitudes towards sexuality and desire in ancient Rome. While Roman society was generally more permissive regarding sexual matters compared to some other ancient cultures, attitudes towards sexuality varied depending on social class, gender, and religious beliefs.
Measurement:  7.5 x 2.8 cm
Depth:  10.7 cm