An ancient Roman Byzantine Empire moulded terracotta lamp, most commonly known as a slipper lamp. The lamp is decorated on the disc with a Kantharos with double handle and gallon body. The body tapers in at the nozzle. Lamps such as this one are occasionally known as animal head lamps, due to the appearance of the knob on the handle. Its basic function was to provide light through the oil in the tank and the wick that was located in the rostrum. It was also used as a votive and funerary element. Circa: 4th to 6th century AD. Ancient and Antique Roman Imperial Byzantine Terracotta and Ceramic Oil Lamps, Museum Pieces, and Historical Artifacts.