this issue
previous article in this issuenext article in this issue

Document Details :

Title: The “Egg Shell - Thin” Oil Lamps from the Souk of Beirut
Author(s): MULDER-HYMANS, Noor
Journal: ARAM Periodical
Volume: 13    Date: 2001-2002   
Pages: 265-280
DOI: 10.2143/ARAM.13.0.504502

Abstract :
The egg shell-thin oil lamps were found only in Bey 011. They are unique in respect to the quantity of fragments found, the high quality of the ware and the range of themes represented. This fragile, thin ware was probably used for special occasions. Several lamps show representations of the cycle of life and fertility, others have erotic scenes, and a third category is formed by lamps representing some form of power. The large amount of lamp fragments, found in situ next to a large jar, is remarkable and precludes use in a domestic context. Based also on the find of the large jar, probably used as a storage vat for olive oil, this area can be interpreted as a shop where the lamps were sold.

Download article