Roman Oil Lamp with Leda & the Swan

$751.91

A small Roman ceramic oil lamp with a central, decorated discus, sloping shoulders and a lug handle to the rear of the lamp. There is a makers mark to the reverse, inscribed C CLOSVC, which stands for C. Clo(di) Suc(cessi).

The central discus features the amorous couple of Leda and the swan, who represents the Greek god Zeus. Leda is depicted leaning inwards and enveloped by the swans large and majestic wings.

Date: Circa 1st - 2nd century AD
Provenance: From the collection of Arno Jumpertz, Leverkusen, Germany, 1924-1984. Much of the collection was exhibited at Neus museum, 1985.
Condition: Very fine. Hairline crack to the shoulder.

SOLD

SKU: AH-566 Category: Tags: ,

In Greek Mythology Leda was the mother of Helen of Troy, Clytemnestra of Argos and the Dioscuri, Castor and Pollux. Zeus, having fallen in love with the Spartan queen, came to her in the guise of a swan. Copulating with Leda, she later gave birth to two eggs containing her four children. It was said that Helen and Pollux were fathered by Zeus, whilst Clytemnestra and Castor were father by Leda’s husband, King Tyndareus.

Weight 46.1 g
Dimensions L 8.8 x W 6.4 x H 4 cm
Culture

Greek Mythology

,

Pottery and Porcelain

Region

Reference: The J. Paul Getty Museum, item 83.AK.438.418

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