Unknown Maker, Hellenistic

Daylight directed daily life to a much larger extent in antiquity than it does today. Activities after sundown required oil lamps. Mold-made lamps, such as the one shown here, were manufactured in large quantities to satisfy the needs of the general populace. Ceramic lamps often imitated more costly metal counterparts; however, this small-scale lamp shows no sign of conventional use. It is possible that it was used for ceremonial purposes or as a child's toy. A welcome addition to the Museum's collection of Greek and Roman lamps, its tiny scale also places it squarely in the category of our small collection of Greek miniature vessels.