Historical Context & Origin
Region: Carthage, Roman North Africa (Modern Tunisia)
Material: Terracotta pottery with associated bronze coins
Period: Late Punic to Early Roman Period, Circa 5th Century BCE–1st Century AD
Description
This ancient terracotta saucer-shaped oil lamp originates from the historic city of Carthage, one of the most influential centers of the ancient Mediterranean world. Hand-formed from earthenware clay, the lamp features a shallow open reservoir with a distinctive folded and pinched rim designed to support a wick while holding lamp oil. This simple yet effective design represents one of the earliest and most enduring forms of artificial lighting used throughout antiquity.
Accompanying the lamp is a group of ancient bronze coins displaying substantial patination and age-related wear. Together, the lamp and coins create an evocative display representative of daily life, commerce, and material culture in ancient Carthage.
The piece is further accompanied by an old French collector's label identifying it as originating from archaeological excavations at Carthage and dating to the Roman Empire. Whether dating to the late Punic or early Roman period, the lamp stands as a tangible connection to one of antiquity's most important centers of trade, culture, and civilization.
Features
- Ancient Roman terracotta saucer-shaped oil lamp
- Attributed to Carthage, Roman North Africa
- Distinctive hand-formed folded and pinched rim construction
- Accompanied by ancient bronze coins
- Rich archaeological surfaces and earthen patina
- Accompanied by vintage French collector's label
- Excellent display piece illustrating Roman daily life and commerce
Cultural Significance
Before the widespread adoption of molded enclosed lamps, saucer-shaped oil lamps provided a practical and economical source of illumination throughout the ancient Mediterranean world. Carthage was among the most powerful and prosperous cities of antiquity, first as the capital of the Punic civilization and later as a major Roman provincial center. Artifacts such as this lamp offer valuable insight into the domestic lives, technological practices, and commercial networks that shaped everyday existence across centuries of North African history.
Condition
Ancient condition with expected archaeological wear, surface deposits, firing imperfections, minor losses, and age-related wear throughout. Associated coins exhibit substantial patination and circulation wear consistent with age. Stable and highly displayable. Please review photographs carefully for condition details.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Width: 5 in
Depth: 5 in
Height: 2.5 inches
Age (Approximate)
2,000–2,500 years old
Provenance
Accompanied by an old French collector's label reading:
"Très rare plat avec monnaies, fouilles archéologiques à Carthage. Empire Romain, Ier siècle."
(Translated: "Very rare dish with coins, archaeological excavations at Carthage. Roman Empire, 1st Century.")
Subsequently held in a private collection in Montreal, QC, Canada.
Learn More
Discover the history and function of ancient saucer-shaped oil lamps through The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Explore Our Collection of Roman & Greek Artifacts
