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Terracotta oil lamp

ca. 40–80 CE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 171
Loeschcke Type 1A. Mold-made. Discus: heavily armored gladiator, standing facing right, wearing a helmet with plumes behind, armor on his right arm, greaves, and a large rectangular shield that protects his entire body, and holding in his right hand a short sword; a single filling hole at bottom left, and a band of lines and grooves towards edge. Volutes flanking wide, angular nozzle, with large wick hole. Incised base ring, and flat base.

Intact.

On discus, a gladiator. His heavy armor and large rectangular shield identify the fighter as a samnis (Samnite) or murmillo.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Terracotta oil lamp
  • Period: Early Imperial
  • Date: ca. 40–80 CE
  • Culture: Roman
  • Medium: Terracotta; mold-made
  • Dimensions: Overall: 1 1/16 x 3 15/16 in. (2.7 x 10 cm)
  • Classification: Terracottas
  • Credit Line: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
  • Object Number: 74.51.2026
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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