Event for Two Introverts #2, Ancient Cat Lamp

Two people will light a lamp for the first time in 1800 years to connect their shadows to those who first used it.
About this Event

Quick Summary:

This event involves me giving you a box with an ancient lamp in it, among other things. I'll leave you on your own to follow the instructions inside. You'll keep the box and its contents.

Detailed Description:

Ancient Cat Lamp is a one-of-a-kind interactive artwork created as a private event for two people. At its center is an actual Roman terracotta oil lamp, made sometime between 200 and 400 CE and decorated with the image of a cat. The lamp, along with the box and everything in it, will be yours to keep.

With the lamp are instructions for lighting it for the first time in nearly 2,000 years and using its light with a set of shadow puppets included in the box. The event is meant to connect you to people thousands of years ago, based on the simple idea that the shadows you cast are the same as those made by the first people lit by the lamp.

The event will occur like this:

• First, we’ll agree upon a place. In the spirit of the event, the location needs to be very quiet, dark, and protected from the wind, like a cave or garage or basement. I can choose a place for you or you can decide one on your own.
• Next, we’ll agree on a day and time. The day can be changed if need be due to weather.
• At the agreed time and place, I’ll bring you the box. (I can meet you at your chosen location or give you the box before you go.)
• Once you have the box and are at your location, you’ll follow the instructions inside. Everything you need to light the lamp and complete the event will be included.

Because this event is just for the two of you, almost any reasonable accommodation can be made. Don’t be afraid to ask.

This particular event is unique to you and will never be repeated. Afterward, the box and its contents belong to you.

You provide:

• Yourself and a guest
• A willingness to take your time exploring the box’s instructions and contents.
• Anything else such as food or drink you’d like to have during your event.

In the box: an ancient cat lamp, basket, oil, matches, abstract shadow puppets, instructions, and more.

The provenance of the lamp is - Private collection. IEGOR Auctions, Montreal, Quebec. Collection of the host.

This piece, like all ancient items I work with, came from an older collection and was bought through an auction house that specializes in the authentication and sale of such things. Relevant documentation is included.