A metaphor for joy and prosperity, for hope,
for life itself, lamps have illuminated the path
of civilization for centuries. They have shed
light on mundane and extraordinary events
alike, guiding great thoughts through the
night, and standing vigil with lonely passions.
In the presence of this simple object, we are
in touch directly with a vanished world, with
the rooms and shrines once warmed by its
glow, with the people who drew comfort from
its light. Today it remains as an enduring
symbol of man's desire to conquer the
darkness. Samaritan oil lamps are
characterized by a sealed filling hole, which
was to be broken by the buyer. This was
probably done to ensure ritual purity. A wider
spout, and the concavities flanking the nozzle
are almost always emphasized with a ladder
pattern band, as seen here. The decorations
are linear and/or geometric.
- (BB.1563)
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