FORVM`s Classical Numismatics Discussion Board

Antiquities Discussion Forums => Oil Lamps => Topic started by: PBA on January 28, 2022, 09:14:09 am

Title: Ptolemaic Oil lamp? Forgery?
Post by: PBA on January 28, 2022, 09:14:09 am
What do you think about this Oil lamp? Style is ptolemaic. It has been repaired on the side (Pic 4) and the surface finish appears new. Is it ancient...?
Title: Re: Ptolemaic Oil lamp? Forgery?
Post by: Strobilus2 on January 30, 2022, 09:29:53 pm
I'm afraid your doubts are well founded. Although the general style of the lamp roughly conforms to Hellenistic types, the decorative scheme, atypical filling-hole, surface condition and other factors suggest it is almost certainly a modern fake or reproduction.
Title: Re: Ptolemaic Oil lamp? Forgery?
Post by: Akropolis on January 30, 2022, 09:50:54 pm
No sign it had everr been lit. I would think the spout would be charred somewhat.
PeteB
Title: Re: Ptolemaic Oil lamp? Forgery?
Post by: Strobilus2 on January 30, 2022, 10:40:50 pm
Quote from: Akropolis on January 30, 2022, 09:50:54 pm
No sign it had everr been lit. I would think the spout would be charred somewhat.
PeteB

A very large proportion of authentic lamps were never lit. They were often placed in tombs in pristine condition - perhaps intended for the deceased in the afterlife.