Byzantine Bronze Oil Lamp Filler or Cosmetic Mortar bayonperiod surmounted by a decorative knob

surmounted by a decorative knob

and padre beads— the latter particularly favored by pastoralist groups in East Africa

and spiritual significance

Dream of Ideal Life in Ancient China: Ceramic Miniatures of Architectures

Byzantine Bronze Oil Lamp Filler or Cosmetic Mortar bayonperiod surmounted by a decorative knobThe Byzantine Empire, c. 400900 AD Magnificent early Byzantine cast bronze oil lamp filler or cosmetic mortar, featuring a beautifully balanced hemispherical body with a deep rounded bowl and a flattened base. A long, channeled spout extends gracefully from the side, designed for accurate pouring, while a finely shaped flat lobed handle and smaller lateral lugs complete the functional yet elegant form. Objects of this typecharacterized by a small