A lamp such as this might have lit homes during the reign of the great Roman Empire. A metaphor of joy and prosperity, for hope, for life itself, lamps have illuminated the path of civilization for centuries. They have guided great thoughts through the night, stood vigil with lonely passions. In the presence of this simple object, we are in touch directly with a vanished world, with the people once warmed by its glow. Today it remains as an enduring symbol of man's desire to conquer the darkness. This particular lamp's has an indistinct pattern, which makes it unique and mysterious. Perhaps it belonged to a traveling merchant? Or even a humble shopkeeper?