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Roman terracotta lamp, mythological scene with the goddess Athena.    

Athena, shown standing left on a platform holding her spear, seems to be reaching across to a long haired figure holding a dagger.  In front is a squatting male figure, likely a satyr, holding an attribute.  It is likely that the scene depicted here represents the discovery of Athena's flute by the satyr Marsyas, who then proceeds to challenge Apollo to a musical contest which he loses.  Apollo, as punishment, has Marsyas skinned alive by a "barbarian", who is likely the figure in the background.  An extremely interesting scene, worthy of further research.

Maker's mark on back: L MVNPHILO.

L. 4 1/4" (10.7 cm.)

Ca. 1st-2nd century AD