This reusable guide covers 1500 BC- 27 AD and such key people as Julius Caesar. It is to be used in conjunction with the Roman Oil Lamp (EDU 025). An oil lamp is a vessel that produces light using a fuel source. The word lamp comes from the Greek word lampas, meaning 'torch.' Oil lamps were used around the Mediterranean area from 2000 B.C. through the 19th century. They were one of the most common household items in ancient times. The basic Roman oil lamp had an opening for a wick, a filling hole for oil, and a handle on the other side. Roman oil lamps were often decorated with a molded relief of political figures, mythical characters, gladiators, animals, floral patterns, or geometric designs. Most lamps were made with unglazed clay, or covered with a red glaze. The wicks were made of plant fibers such as mullein, linen, oakum, or papyrus. The main type of fuel used was olive oil with salt added. Salt kept the oil from overheating and gave the light a yellow color.