Christian terracotta oil lamp – Bussière Type E VIII 7, 4th century AD

Minute observation under magnification and raking light revealing a well-balanced functional morphology. The surface shows a homogeneous brown-ochre archaeological patina with firing micro-irregularities and coherent mineral concretions.

Elongated body with closed reservoir and preserved central filling orifice. Sober iconography characteristic of early Christian productions.

Elongated and protruding spout, small lateral handle formerly restored in a discreet and stable manner.

Flan and edge

Molded terracotta with manual finishing, dimensions 41 × 118 × 75 mm. Ancient wear distributed coherently with prolonged use in the Late Antique period.

Bussière E VIII 7 type, molding technique, ceramic material. No repainting or intrusive modern intervention observed.

From the 4th century AD, following the Edict of Milan (313), Christian lamps spread widely throughout the Mediterranean. Domestic, liturgical and funerary use where light symbolizes faith and salvation.

Representative testimony of Christian material culture illustrating the standardization of forms while retaining strong symbolic significance.

Documented provenance, expert examination, certificate of authenticity included. Export license provided if necessary according to cultural property regulations.