Description
This rare molded ceramic oil lamp belongs to the distinctive Samaritan tradition of ancient Samaria. Designed with five nozzles for multiple wicks, it is richly decorated with geometric ornament, including rosettes, concentric circles, braided borders, and guilloche patterns characteristic of Samaritan workshops. Lamps of this type provided enhanced illumination for homes and places of worship and reflect the refined ceramic craftsmanship of the Samaritan community during the Late Roman and Byzantine periods. Fine examples are considerably less common than the standard single-nozzle Samaritan lamps and are highly sought after by collectors of Holy Land antiquities.
REFERENCE #
OL-JD-1001
CIVILIZATION
Samaritan, 3rd – 6th century AD
SIZE
L. 13.5 cm, 11 cm W
CONDITION
The spout on the left is restored otherwise in fine condition
PRICE
$3500
PROVENANCE
Jerusalem Private Collection
Frequently Asked Questions
This Samaritan oil lamp is unique because it features five nozzles for multiple wicks, unlike the standard single-nozzle lamps commonly found. This design allowed for enhanced illumination in homes and places of worship during the Late Roman and Byzantine periods.
The lamp is richly decorated with geometric ornaments such as rosettes, concentric circles, braided borders, and guilloche patterns. These designs are characteristic of Samaritan ceramic workshops and reflect their refined craftsmanship.
This oil lamp dates back to the 3rd to 6th century AD, corresponding to the Late Roman and Byzantine periods when the Samaritan community flourished in ancient Samaria.
The lamp measures 13.5 cm in length and 11 cm in width. It is in fine condition overall, with a restored spout on the left side.
Lamps with multiple nozzles like this one are considerably rarer than standard single-nozzle Samaritan lamps. Their rarity, historical significance, and fine craftsmanship make them highly desirable among collectors of Holy Land antiquities.
The primary function of this lamp was to provide enhanced illumination by using multiple wicks simultaneously, which was useful in homes and places of worship during its time.
This lamp comes from a private collection in Jerusalem, indicating its provenance from the Holy Land region where the Samaritan community lived.
