Chillingham Roman Oil Lamp, Bull

Handcrafted Replica Roman Bull Lamp

Details

This beautifully crafted museum-quality replica is based on a remarkable Roman oil lamp dating to around 150 AD. The bull was a symbol of strength, sacrifice, and prosperity in Roman culture, appearing in religious ceremonies, myths, and artworks throughout the empire.

However, the story of this lamp doesn’t end in Roman times. The original was rediscovered in a medieval castle, where it lay hidden for nearly 500 years. It was found lodged in an arrow slit at Chillingham Castle, Northumberland, buried beneath rubble when the castle was reinforced in the 15th century to withstand attacks from newly invented cannons.

The design of the bull’s head may have been inspired by the wild Chillingham cattle, an ancient breed that still roams the hills surrounding the castle today. Some believe this lamp was left as a good luck offering by medieval builders during construction—a charm that remained untouched and perfectly preserved for centuries.

Today, the original lamp can still be seen at Chillingham Castle, a place famous not only for its history but also for its ghostly legends and paranormal activity.

Now, you can own a piece of history with this authentic, handcrafted replica.

This lamp comes with one cotton wick, so you can use it as soon as you have read the safety instructions. Spare wicks are available here.

Materials

• Terracotta earthenware with a red slip finish

Dimensions

• Length: Approx. 215 mm
• Height: Approx. 70 mm
• Width: Approx. 110 mm

Production

As with all our Museum Quality Replicas, this lamp has been crafted entirely by hand, using natural clay and authentic tools that would have been used by ancient potters.

• Hand-formed and fired to replicate original Roman techniques.
• Each lamp is unique—subtle variations in shape and finish make every piece one of a kind.

Health & Safety

Before using your lamp, please read the safety and operating instructions carefully.

• Burn ONLY OLIVE OIL—Do not use modern lamp oils or any other flammable liquids.
• Place the lamp on a stable, non-flammable surface, away from heat sources.
• Do not leave the lamp unattended while lit.
• Never attempt to move the lamp while lit or hot.
• Snuff out the flame with a metal spoon—never blow it out or use water.
• Keep wick trimmed short to maintain a clean, bright flame and reduce fire risk.
• Not a toy—Keep out of reach of children.
• Use at your own risk—we cannot take responsibility for accidents or injury caused by use.

Instructions

1. Adjust the wick so it does not protrude above the wick aperture.
2. Fill the lamp through the central filler hole using olive oil.
3. Let the wick soak for one hour before first use.
4. Light the lamp. If the flame produces smoke, shorten the wick by turning it carefully with tweezers (do not do this while the lamp is lit or hot).

Ordering Information

• 'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
• 'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.

Shipping

• All items are sent via second-class postal service as standard.
• If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.

Step into the past with an authentic piece of Roman craftsmanship. Order today!