Lamp Holder | NCMA Explore

“Lamp Holder in the Shape of an Actor’s Head”

Ancient oil-burning lamps included a container, fuel, and a wick. Wicks were often made from fibrous material like linen, papyrus, and other plant fibers. The fuel used in ancient lamps depended on the availability of the fuel source. Substances used for fuel included olive oil, sesame oil (in the East), nut oil, fish oil, castor oil, grape-seed oil, and other oils from plants.

https://learn.ncartmuseum.org/artwork/lamp-holder-in-the-shape-of-an-actors-head/