JERUSALEM, Dec. 10 (Xinhua) -- A new Israeli research has identified a rare wick that was used for oil lamps, dated 1,500 years ago, the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) reported on Monday.
The study, led by the University of Haifa, examined findings discovered by American archaeologists back in the 1930s at the Byzantine settlements in the southern Negev Desert. One of the objects was identified as the wick.
The researchers said that despite its small size, this discovery is important because of the small number of ancient wicks known today.
It seems that the rare wick was preserved due to the dry climate in the Negev. According to the researchers, the oil candles played a major role in daily life in ancient times and made it possible to illuminate houses and public buildings.
Such lamps, made of pottery or glass, are often found in archeological excavations, but it is rare to discover wicks from ancient times.
That's because they are made of organic fibers, which normally disintegrate quickly and disappear into the soil, as well as because they are so small and are usually consumed by fire.
The wick was found in its holder, a small copper tube in which it was inserted when it was lit. Microscopic examination showed that the wick was made of linen, which comes from the flax plant and is known for its use in textiles and clothing as well as for wicks in oil lamps.
According to the tests conducted and the quality of the fibers of the wick, it is estimated that the residents of the region in the Byzantine period purchased lower-quality linen for their wicks, reserving better quality fibers for the garment industry.
