Lamp with Handle in the shape of a Griffin's Head (Primary Title)
Griffin Lamp (Alternate Title)

Unknown (Artist)

4th–5th century
Byzantine
bronze
Overall: 6 3/4 × 9 1/4 × 2 1/2 in. (17.15 × 23.5 × 6.35 cm)
66.10
Not on view
The griffin, a mythical monster part eagle and part lion, was considered the keeper of light in classical mythology. Christian symbols – the dove, the dolphin, the cross, and the Christogram (the first letters of Christ’s name) – place this griffin in a Christian context.
Arthur and Margaret Glasgow Fund
"Intimate Rituals and Personal Devotions: Spiritual Art Through the Ages", Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, University of Florida, FL, August 12, 2000 - January 14, 2001
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC

Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.