الفهرس 
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Abstract
This thesis attempts to identify the different forms and the symbolic significance associated with the flora and fauna, the geometrical elements, and other figural representations carved or decorated on metal lighting equipment of the Roman Period (30 BC- AD 640) in the Coptic Museum at Cairo. The study approaches these symbols from an archaeological and artistic perspective. Symbolism in Coptic art can be viewed as an artistic concept that resulted from the embrace of ancient Egyptian artistic traditions by christian artists. The hostile political situation during the first centuries of Roman rule against all what was christian made the artists commit to concealment and then resort to symbolism. The spread of christianity was a means for the spread of symbols.
The study first considers metal lighting equipment and materials in the Roman period. It then focuses on the different types of the flora and fauna confirmed on metal lighting equipment like candelabra, lusters and oil lamps. It finally explores the different kinds of the geometrical and other figural representations that are carved or decorated on metal lighting equipment.