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?
- (LK.325)
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