Tallow Oil Lamp

Handcrafted Replica Roman Tallow Lamp – Inspired by Finds from London

Details

Though simple in appearance, this handcrafted Roman tallow lamp was an essential tool in the ancient world, providing light during the dark nights. Based on finds made by Museum of London Archaeology, similar lamps have been unearthed in Colchester, London, and across Europe, dating from AD 43 to at least the mid-2nd century.

Residue analysis has revealed that these lamps were most commonly fuelled by tallow (rendered beef or mutton fat), though olive oil was also used.

Each lamp comes with one cotton wick, so you can begin using it immediately after reading the operating and safety instructions. If you require additional wicks, they can be purchased separately.

Production

As with all our Museum Quality Replicas, this lamp has been entirely handcrafted using natural clay and authentic tools, replicating the techniques of ancient Roman potters. Due to the nature of the traditional firing process, each piece is one of a kind, and slight variations in colour and texture are expected.

Materials

• Terracotta earthenware

Dimensions

• Length: Approx. 165 mm
• Height: Approx. 60 mm

Health & Safety

Before using your lamp, please read the safety instructions carefully:

• Burn ONLY OLIVE OIL in your lamp.
• DO NOT use modern lamp oil, paraffin, or other flammable liquids.
• Place the lamp on a stable, non-absorbent, and non-flammable surface, away from heat sources.
• Always snuff out the flame using a metal spoon—never blow it out or use water.
• DO NOT move or pick up the lamp while it is lit.
• Keep away from flammable materials above or near the lamp.
• DO NOT leave the lamp unattended while lit.
• Trim the wick very short to ensure a clean, bright flame and reduce fire risk.
• This lamp is not a toy – KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
• As this is an open-flame lamp, there is a higher risk of spillage. We recommend outdoor use only.
• Use of this lamp is at your own risk – we cannot accept responsibility for accidents or injuries caused by its use.
• With regular use, this lamp will develop signs of wear, including discolouration and potential cracking, just as the originals would have done.

Instructions for Use

1. Adjust the wick so that it does not protrude above the wick aperture before filling.
2. Fill the lamp with olive oil, allowing the wick to soak for 1 hour before lighting for the first time.
3. Light the lamp. If the flame produces smoke, shorten the wick (never adjust the wick while 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.
• Postage Note: All items are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

Bring the glow of ancient Rome into your home with this beautifully handcrafted tallow lamp. Order today to illuminate your space with history!