An ancient Roman Byzantine Empire moulded terracotta clay lamp, most commonly known as a slipper lamp from a Roman village. Found in Bulgaria. The body of the lamp is typically adorned with a relief design representing a human figure. 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: 1st century to 3rd century AD. Ancient and Antique Roman Imperial Byzantine Terracotta and Ceramic Oil Lamps, Museum Pieces, and Historical Artifacts.