Australian scientists from the University of Melbourne have solved the long-standing mystery of a bronze oil lamp found in Italy in 1840. For almost 200 years, archaeologists could not agree on who exactly was depicted on this lamp. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Etruscan and Italic Studies (EIS).
A large and ornate artifact was discovered in a ditch near the Italian city of Cortona. As the analysis showed, the object belonged to the Etruscan culture, but due to the absence of other similar objects, there was nothing to compare it with. Therefore, experts did not know where and how it was used.
In a new study, scientists were able to determine that the lamp was created around 480 AD, much earlier than previous estimates. Archaeologists also found that the lamp was dedicated not to the river god Achelous, as previously thought, but to Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine and fun.
Researchers found that his predecessors were confused by the bull horns on Dionysus’ head and the faces around him. Based on various literary sources, experts have proven that Dionysus is often depicted with bull features. Thus, the lamp symbolized not only the resident of Olympus himself, but also his tiaz, an entourage of drunken revelers.
Archaeologists suggest that this lamp was used during Dionysus festivals and shows.
Previously in Kamne-Pomorski to create rare medieval artifact.
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Source: Gazeta
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