Votive Oil Lamp c. 1250

This small, ceramic oil lamp, dating back to the 13th century, is a testament to the craftsmanship of its anonymous maker. Its blue and white glaze, reminiscent of the Aegean region, features subtle variations and a distinctive worn look. Such lamps, often used in homes and places of worship, would have provided both practical light and a sense of devotion. This piece, now housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, offers a glimpse into the everyday life of a bygone era.