1781 A Song dynasty Cizhou ware green-glazed oil lamp and candlestick with two ram’s heads

This dual-purpose oil lamp and candlestick brings together an upper holder, a narrowed central section, and a broad base. Two projecting ram’s heads add sculptural interest to its balanced outline, while the deep green glaze unifies the different parts. As a lighting implement, it combines the practical requirements of support and stability with an expressive use of animal forms.

The ingenuity of this vessel lies in its dual function: it can serve both as a candlestick and as an oil lamp. The conical base lends the vessel a sense of stability while providing greater capacity for fuel oil. Two loop handles at the rim allow it to be placed on a surface or suspended. Beauty of form and practical ingenuity come together in this thoughtfully conceived design.