Roman-Byzantine Terracotta Hanging Lantern

Description

Roman–Byzantine Terracotta Hanging Lantern
Holy Land, circa 4th–6th century AD

A rare terracotta hanging lantern of the Late Roman–Byzantine period, originating from the Holy Land. The vessel has a rounded hollow body rising into a long neck terminating in a large loop handle for suspension. A broad rectangular opening on one side allowed a small oil lamp to be placed inside, while a series of pierced holes around the body provided ventilation and allowed the light to shine through.

Ceramic lanterns of this type served as protective housings for ordinary oil lamps, shielding the flame while allowing the lantern to be carried or suspended. Closely related examples are known from Roman and Byzantine contexts in The holy Land and throughout the eastern Mediterranean.