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Lamp with Griffin-Head Handle, 300s-400s (bronze)
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Lamp with Griffin-Head Handle, 300s-400s (bronze)
499855 Lamp with Griffin-Head Handle, 300s-400s (bronze)
by Byzantine School; 14.7x22.6x7 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Bronze oil lamps with griffin-head handles and Christian symbolic decoration were common from the 4th through the 6th centuries and have survived in considerable numbers all over the Mediterranean world. The popularity of griffins, ancient mythological creatures with the body of a lion and head and wings of an eagle, is probably rooted in their traditional role as powerful guardian figures and protectors. On this Early Byzantine bronze lamp, the griffin seems to have functioned similarly as a guardian of the flame and a keeper of the light. The decoration of an everyday utilitarian object with both pagan and Christian symbols of protection may mark an effort to enhance its power.); Gift of Mrs. Chester D. Tripp in honor of William Mathewson Milliken on his 85th year; out of copyright
Media ID 22911400
© Gift of Mrs. Chester D. Tripp in honor of William Mathewson Milliken on his 85th year / Bridgeman Images
Byzantium C04th C05th Early Byzantine Period Griffin Handle Lamp Mythological Creature Syrian
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable artifact from the Byzantine era, known as the "Lamp with Griffin-Head Handle". Crafted between the 4th and 6th centuries, this bronze oil lamp stands at a size of 14.7x22.6x7 cm and is currently housed in the prestigious Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA. Bronze lamps adorned with griffin-head handles were quite prevalent during this period and can be found scattered across the Mediterranean region. The popularity of griffins, mythical creatures with lion bodies and eagle heads and wings, stems from their traditional role as powerful guardians and protectors. In this particular lamp, it appears that the griffin served as both a guardian of the flame and a keeper of light. What makes this lamp truly fascinating is its decoration - an amalgamation of pagan and Christian symbols representing protection. This blending may have been an intentional effort to enhance its power beyond being just an everyday utilitarian object. The generous gift of Mrs. Chester D. Tripp in honor of William Mathewson Milliken on his 85th year has allowed art enthusiasts to appreciate this exquisite piece up close at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Through Bridgeman Images' lens, we are able to marvel at the intricate craftsmanship that embodies both mythological allure and religious symbolism within this early Byzantine treasure.
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