The lamp has a dome-shaped structure with a pointed top and a large opening at the front. It is likely that oil would have been placed in the base of the lamp, with a wick protruding upward. The design of the dome effectively provides coverage for the flame, while the opening allows for sufficient oxygen to keep the fire burning.
Islamic oil lamps, have a rich history that reflects the artistic and cultural developments in the regions they originate from. During the Islamic Golden Age, which spanned roughly from the 8th to the 16th century, craftsmen produced intricate and functional oil lamps that were both utilitarian and works of art. These lamps were commonly made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, bronze, and glass, and adorned with beautiful designs that often reflected Islamic artistic principles.
Persian oil lamps, in particular, often showcased intricate calligraphy and geometric patterns, which are hallmarks of Islamic art. The use of light in these lamps also held symbolic significance. Light was often associated with knowledge, divinity, and the presence of God, making oil lamps important in both religious and daily contexts.
Mughal oil lamps, which emerged in the Indian subcontinent during the Mughal Empire, displayed a blend of Persian influences with local artistry. These lamps were sometimes elaborate, featuring detailed motifs of flora and fauna, and were often used in both public and private spaces to add elegance and ambiance.
Although little is known about the specific creation date and originating culture of the Joukowsky lamp, its inclusion in the Joukowsky Minassian Collection suggests it may be representative of Persian, Islamic, or Mughal origins. The Minassian family’s lifelong passion for Persian and Islamic art, often reflected in their extensive travels to the Near East and India to collect artifacts, underscores the significant cultural exchange that occurred during those periods.
Brown University became the primary beneficiary of the family’s remarkable art collection in 1988, following the passing of Adrienne Minassian, allowing for continued appreciation and study of these historical pieces. The collection not only provides insight into the craftsmanship and design sensibilities of the time but also serves as a reminder of the cultural narratives woven throughout the history of Islamic art and the role of light in everyday life during these influential eras. Each oil lamp, including this cobalt-glazed piece, carries a story of its own, bridging the past with the present and illuminating the rich tapestry of human history.
To learn more about oil lamps, visit the websites below:
Experiment with Kindling Oil Lamps: https://exarc.net/issue-2020-3/ea/experiment-kindling-oil-lamps
Pottery Vessels and Oil Lamps from the Iron Age, Persian, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine Periods from Ben Gamli’el Street, Yafo (Jaffa):https://www.jstor.org/stable/26954604?seq=1
British Museum Oil Lamp Collection: https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/search?object=oil-lamp