Ancient Egyptian Terracotta Ancient Egyptian Terracotta Frog Oil Lamp - 2.5 cm

Ancient terracotta oil lamp of the so-called frog lamp type, featuring a rounded body with an elongated nozzle and wick hole. The shoulder is decorated with relief geometric ornamentation and stylized linear motifs surrounding the central filling hole in a symmetrical composition, characteristic of Late Antique decorative traditions. The slightly raised rim and carefully modelled form indicate production using a two-part mould.

Frog lamps were widely used throughout the eastern Mediterranean during the Late Roman and Early Byzantine periods, particularly in Egypt and neighbouring regions. Their distinctive decoration is believed to have held symbolic as well as decorative significance, while the lamps themselves served both domestic and ritual purposes.

The lamp is made of light red to ochre-fired terracotta and displays an attractive archaeological surface with visible traces of use around the nozzle, consistent with its original function.

Condition: Age-related wear, minor chips, surface encrustations and signs of use. Overall well preserved.

The modern display stand is used solely for presentation and is not part of the ancient object.

Provenance

Formerly in the Madeleine & Erich Dammann Collection, Germany.

Acquired during the collectors’ extensive travels between 1950 and 1970. The collection is documented in Germany by 1970 through historical photographs of the family residence and subsequently remained in continuous family ownership.

The objects were acquired privately during the collectors’ travels. As was customary for private purchases made at local markets during the 1950s and 1960s, purchase receipts or invoices were generally neither issued nor requested.

Historical photographs and biographical documentation relating to the Dammann Collection are available and support the long-standing provenance of the collection.