Roman African Red Slip Lamp with Dolphin Motif, Roman Imperial Period, ca. 3rd–4th century CE
RT2404
- This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $75 if shipping internationally.
This finely preserved oil lamp is molded in warm orange-red African Red Slip (ARS) ware, with a sharply defined central tondo featuring a stylized dolphin, its arched body fluidly rendered with a prominent round eye, open beak, pointed dorsal fin, and outstretched tail. The lamp’s rounded shoulder is richly decorated with a radiating motif of alternating olive branches and tiled squares, enhancing the visual dynamism and rhythm of the surface.
The lamp has a classic elongated nozzle, two small filling holes, and a slightly upturned volute tip. The underside bears a neatly defined base ring, typical of the region’s late Roman production standards.
African Red Slip ware, produced primarily in Tunisia, became the dominant fine ware of the Roman West from the 1st to the 5th centuries CE. These lamps were widely exported across the Mediterranean and into Western Europe, with some examples found as far north as Britain. The use of dolphins as decorative elements may allude to maritime themes, protective symbolism, or Dionysian iconography, reflecting the cultural diffusion within Roman decorative vocabulary.
Medium: Terracotta
Dimensions: Length: 5 1/4 inches (13.3 cm). Height: 2 inches (5.08 cm)
Condition: Intact and in excellent condition, with crisp mold detail and well-preserved surface.
Provenance: A.V. private collection, Virginia, acquired from the Brussels trade in the 1980s.
Sands of Time provides a lifetime, unconditional guarantee of authenticity and provenance. Every object you purchase from us is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, stating culture, provenance, and age.
Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
We ship Tuesday to Friday with UPS or FedEx and usually same day if your order is received before 2pm. Within the continental USA, packing, shipping and insurance is free. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.
For overseas shipments we charge a small flat rate which includes packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance and carrier fees in compliance with all USA and International customs requirements. Overseas shipments are sent using FedEx or DHL but contact us if you have a shipping preference. International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes.
