Minneapolis Institute of Art

Pottery Lamp

China

Date

1st century

Medium

Earthenware with green glaze

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This grand, three-tiered pottery lamp was originally placed in an Eastern Han dynasty tomb where it was deemed necessary for the soul's safe journey into the next life. The complex structure probably replicates even more elaborate bronze lamps used by Han dynasty aristocrats in their homes and palaces. By this time, the Chinese had already developed a taste for decorative lanterns and special lighting effects. Most lamps of this period used floating wicks fueled by vegetable oil or paraffin. China, Asia

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