Oil lamp with relief depiction of a gladiator, inv. no. SS1

Dated to: 1st to 2nd centuries AD
Dimensions: length 9.5 cm; height 2.3 cm; width 6.8 cm
Site: St. Simon Bay, Izola, archaeological excavation

The oil lamp from St. Simon's Bay depicts a fighting gladiator, equipped with a helmet, an oblong shield, and a sword. The oil lamp, called a volute lamp by the experts due to its characteristic volute spout, with a gladiator depicted on the upper surface. Gladiators were a group of men who fought each other in Roman amphitheatres to entertain the crowds. They were generally prisoners of war, purchased slaves, captives, or volunteers who joined the profession for money.