1. Q. " I am using the oil lamp for the first time. I am a little worried; is it safe?"

A. "For over 15,000 years people have been using oil lamps. There really isn't anything to worry about. Look at our instructions of use and you will see, as demonstrated in the pictures, there are just a few easy steps. Follow these steps and your oil lamp will work, and work safely. Olive oil, like all vegetable oils, is safe burning and will never cause the lamp to explode. Do not to use paraffin oils, however. All of the oil lamps in the Epalladio Collection are made of high-fired stoneware clay which prevents leakage. Each lamp has a special place for the wick so that the flame remains safe and functional. As with all open flames, they must be kept in safe places and out of the reach of children."

2. Q. "Can I use my oil lamp in a sauna?"

A. "In fact, only olive oil lamps can work in a sauna. Oil can endure high temperatures without a problem, so you're free to create a harmonious atmosphere in just about any environment you choose... enjoy it."

3. Q. "Can I use my olive oil lamp for camping? "

A. "This lamp is the ideal tool for camping. For one thing, it takes a strong wind to blow one out. By adjusting the wick according to the force of the wind, your lamp will burn well as long as you keep it filled with vegetable oil. We've even used our oil lamps to cook and to warm food. But the great part about camping with an oil lamp is its golden light."

4. Q. " What do I do when the wick has finished?"

A. "The wick that comes with your lamp should last about 48 hours, depending upon how large the flame is. The wick must be made of 100% cotton. The ancients used loose cotton which had been rubbed tightly into a wick shape. Such a wick must be thin enough to go through the wick holder. You may also order from Epalladio ready wicks, which are easy to use and burn much longer."

5. Q." Are your oil lamps authentic replicas?"

A. "We have studied authentic oil lamps from museums around the world. This attention to the original designs and shapes has given us the ability to recreate them in the same way they have been made for centuries. With a deep respect for tradition, we have combined the ancient ways with modern day standards of performance."

6. Q. "Could Epalladio Art Workshop make a custom lamp for me?"

A. " We can do this. Custom lamps are a great gift, not only as a promotion for your school or business, but also a present to yourself! E-mail us for details."