Roman lantern
made of brass and rawhide (parchment)
This Roman lantern is based on historical originals from the 1st to 3rd centuries AD, some of which have been found in Pompeii, parts of England, and what is now Libya. This later type of lamp used mainly olive oil as a fuel source. Although such lamps were made mostly in Italy, the style was copied in places by artisans in Britain and other parts of the world.
The cylindrical frame of the lamp, resting on three feet, is made of brass. It consists of a solid lower plate connected to two supporting vertical struts. These, in turn, are riveted to the upper ring. A dome-shaped lid with decorative vents is attached to the struts by chains and rests securely on the upper ring thanks to two notches in the edge of the lid. For carrying or hanging the lantern, a brass handle / grip is attached to the lid with a third chain. The body is covered with genuine rawhide (parchment). This features additional small ventilation holes that also allow the light to shine through, providing a unique soft and comforting warm glow.
Inside, the fully removable oil container is attached to the lantern base with a simple key. The container consists of three parts - reservoir, wick holder and lid with ventilation holes. However, this finely crafted oil lantern also offers other lighting options: Since both the wick holder and the lid can be completely removed at will, a tea light or a larger candle can be used as an alternative light source instead.
The lantern can be hung, easily carried outdoors, or placed on a table or flat surface, making it extremely versatile. At night, the lantern creates a beautiful atmosphere both indoors and outdoors.
Both decorative and functional, this beautiful brass lantern is an ideal prop for Roman reenactment (whether at Living History events or Roman camps) and larp. It will add that extra bit of authenticity and ambiance to any setting. Of course, it also makes a wonderful decorative object for home or garden.
Details:
- Material: brass, genuine parchment (leather).
- Height: approx. 23,5 cm
- Diameter: approx. 13 cm
- Dimensions oil container: Ø ca. 5 cm, height ca. 4.5 cm
- inner diameter wick holder: ca. 6 mm
- Weight: approx. 800 g
- Delivery is WITHOUT wick and oil
The above specifications may vary slightly from specimen to specimen.
Please note:
Since this Roman lamp is made by hand, no two are alike and the above images are for illustrative purposes only. Also, since leather is a natural product, slight variations in color and/or grain are quite normal. Such "imperfections" give the product a piece of authenticity and make each individual oil lamp a real unique specimen.