A Loeschcke type I C Roman terracotta oil lamp, the discus decorated with a Marabou stork. The lamp has three concentric circles around the perimeter, a filling hole located slightly to the right beneath the bird's leg, and a volute nozzle. The base with an incised maker's mark of a planta pedis. The use of a stork as decoration on Roman oil lamps is a rare theme.
Circa 1st Century AD
Fine condition. A stable hairline crack visible around the nozzle.
Length 9.2 cms (3.6 ins).
Provenance: Ex Southport collection UK, pre 2000.
Birds appeared frequently on lamps in a variety of guises - songbirds, domestic fowl, water birds, and ones that were kept as exotic pets. To the Romans, the stork was an animal associated with Pietas, and in particular, filial piety. The returning bird to its nest each year demonstrated family loyalty, caring for its older family members. Perhaps such a lamp was a gift to an older family member, showing their child's devotion.