Oil lamps are devices that use oil as fuel to produce light. They typically consist of a container for the oil, a wick that draws the oil up, and a flame that burns the wick. These lamps have been used for thousands of years, providing illumination in homes and public spaces before the advent of electric lighting. The design of oil lamps can vary widely, from simple clay vessels to ornate glass and metal creations. They are often associated with historical periods and cultures, such as the ancient Romans and Greeks, who used them for both practical and decorative purposes.