Plastic lamp

Date: Roman

Accession number: 1422

Place of collection: SAM

Material: ceramic

Measurements: L 109 mm; W 42 mm; H 46 mm

This novelty lamp is in the shape of an African's head. The wick of the lamp would have been placed in the mouth. This kind of pottery is called 'samian'. It was manufactured in areas of France during the 1st - 3rd centuries AD. There were many plates, bowls and dishes made in this style, and its manufacture was an early example of assembly line production. Vast quantities of samian ware were shipped to Britain. Their remains can also be found all over the former Roman Empire, including in areas of North Africa.
Lamp made in the shape of the head of an African person.
Lamp made in the shape of the head of an African person.
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