An ancient Roman Hellenistic period terracotta pottery oil lamp, known as a slipper lamp. The body of the lamp is typically adorned with a relief design representing erotic decorated ornaments, and covered with a dark glaze. The lamp is decorated with a raised circle nozzle top. 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: 200 to 100 BC. Antique and Ancient Roman Terracotta and Ceramic Oil Lamps, Museum Pieces, and Historical Artifacts, and Collectibles.