This paper aims to examine models by which symbolism of light and lamp in
the Mediterranean region was manifested in the early Christian visual culture,
i.e. lamp representations from Central Balkans. Lamps with Early
Christian representations are considered in the context of transculturality
of Late Antiquity, as well as political and religious changes that marked the
period. By means of their function, decoration and context of findings, the
lamps from Central Balkans fit into the currents of the Mediterranean
world. Lamp decoration illustrates the general phenomena and tendencies
present in the visual culture of Late Antiquity. The lamps display a gradual
disappearance of pagan and secular themes in favour of Christian themes.
The motifs on the lamps reflect the cultural syncretism of the period and
show the ways in which pagan images were incorporated into Christian
visual culture. The lamps testify about modifications in cult practices, and
the formation of new religious habits, such as pilgrimage for the sake of piety
or healing. Simultaneously, they show that some aspects of the light
and lamps symbolism are archetypal and universal, able to endure despite
religious changes. The particular attention will be dedicated to objects that
reflect the mentioned aspects and tendencies, through their decoration,
symbolism and context of findings.