Lot Essay
An oil lamp of related design in marmo giallo antico, also by Boschetti but without the cover is to be found in the Praz collection, Rome. For an illustration see Alvar Gonzalez-Palacios Il Tempio del Gusto, Longanesi & C., Milan 1984, Volume II, p.131, fig.287. There are minor differences in design between the two, no doubt brought about by the different mediums employed; for example, the basin on the Praz version is fluted and sculpted with a scarab mask, whilst the present example makes use of the stipple effect which is possible on bronze. Likewise, the griffin's tail on the Praz version is lobed, whereas here it is finely chiselled in keeping with the rest of the body. The liner and cover on the present example suggest a purpose which may not have been entirely ornamental.
