Ancient Syrian Terracotta Bes Ritual Oil Lamp

An ancient terracotta oil lamp or vessel attributed to Syria-Palestine, circa 4th century AD, featuring a sculpted handle depicting the Egyptian protective deity Bes. Accompanied by a letter from Syracuse antiquities dealer Benjamin-Lustig's identifying the material and period and discussing the Bes imagery. The form relates to later works associated with Benedetto Boschetti (Italian, 1820–1879), although no attribution to Boschetti is made here. Measures: 10-3/4" H x 8" W x 3-1/4" D. An unusual and highly decorative terracotta ceremonial vessel in the ancient Near Eastern tradition, featuring a dramatically fluted bowl supported by an elaborately modeled pedestal and an animal-form handle with a long, curling tail. The vessel is accompanied by a removable sculptural cover or ornament depicting a bearded face with prominent eyes and stylized facial features, traditionally identified as Bes, the ancient Egyptian protective deity associated with the household, childbirth, and protection of children. Finished in a rich reddish