Olielamp van tin, met zittend paard als dekselknop 1575 - 1600

This is a tin oil lamp, possibly crafted by Havic Joostensz, featuring a charming detail: a sitting horse as the lid knob. Imagine this lamp in its original context. Light was a precious resource, and lamps like this were vital. Who would have owned this lamp? Was it a common household item, illuminating the lives of ordinary people? Or did it belong to someone of higher status, a symbol of their relative wealth and comfort? Horses have long held symbolic weight, often representing power, freedom, and nobility. How does the presence of the horse influence our perception of the lamp? Does it elevate it beyond a simple utilitarian object? Perhaps the choice of a horse reflects the owner's aspirations or their connection to rural life. What emotions does it evoke?