An ancient Byzantine Empire moulded terracotta pottery oil lamp, known as a slipper lamp. The body of the lamp is adorned with a stamped design representing crosses, grapes and flowers on the sides. The lamp is decorated with a raised circle nozzle top and a raised handle. 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: 400 to 600 AD. Ancient and Antique Roman and Byzantine Empire Terracotta and Ceramic Oil Lamps, Museum Pieces, and Historical Artifacts, and Collectibles.