About this artwork
Glass vessels were part of the luxurious domestic decoration displayed in wealthy households in both urban villas and rural estates in the later Roman and early Byzantine eras (about 300–725). Glass vessels were used for a variety of purposes, including cosmetic containers. In the kitchen and for dining, pitchers served water and wine, and small cups were used for drinking. Glass was also used for lamps to light the home.
Byzantine glass craftsmen improved upon the techniques, forms, and decorative motifs they had inherited from their Roman predecessors. An imperial edict of 337 exempted glassworkers from personal taxes and attested to their relative status in society; it remained in effect for several centuries. These artisans would, in turn, pass on their craft to successive generations, including those who worked under Islamic rule after the important Byzantine provinces of Egypt, Palestine, and Syria were conquered in the seventh century.
-
Status
- On View, Gallery 152
-
Department
- Arts of the Ancient Mediterranean and Byzantium
-
Culture
- Byzantine
-
Title
- Jug
-
Place
- Syria (Object made in)
-
Date
- 301 CE–400 CE
-
Medium
- Glass, blown technique
-
Dimensions
- 17.6 × 10.1 × 7.9 cm (6 7/8 × 4 × 3 1/8 in.)
-
Credit Line
- Gift of Theodore W. and Frances S. Robinson
-
Reference Number
- 1945.659
-
IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/54526/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
