Roman Oillamp, 2nd -3rd century AD.

Description

Bronze oil lamp in the shape of a mouse holding a basket in its front paws and dipping its snout into it. The free end of the basket forms the wick opening. The tail is ringed in a circle and thus forms a handle. On the back is the cap of the refill hole in the shape of a bird. The original is in the museum in Hanau-Steinheim and is made of solid clay; apparently it was a “show model” for customers or the “original model” according to which the bronze caster made his wax models for casting. Lamps of this type have been found in various parts of the empire. Dating: 2nd until 3rd century AD. Length of the lamp 9,6 cm. With foxtail chain and hook for hanging.