Oil Lamp

ClassificationsFurnishings-Lighting-lamps-oil lamps

Datemid 19th to early 20th Century

Made AtSri Lanka

Collection SiteSri Lanka

MediumClay

Dimensions3 × 2 3/4 × 1 1/2 in. (7.6 × 7 × 3.8 cm)

Credit LineThe George Stanley Lodin Collection

Object number2015.17.62

DescriptionOil filled lamps are used as offerings in various religious traditions, including Buddhism. Clay lamps such as this are filled with coconut oil and lit with a wick in a religious setting either as an individual offering, or in large groups for significant religious celebrations or holidays. Buddhism in particular places symbolic importance on lamps as the Buddha is seen as the dispeller of darkness. The lamps celebrate the Buddha’s existence and actions. Holy sites and temples typically have built-in notches or stands for such oil lamps.

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