About this artwork
Initially affordable only among the wealthy, glass was used in ancient Rome to create tableware and containers for oils and perfume. The variety of glass-making techniques reveals the changing tastes and fashions over the centuries. During the 1st century, cast glass was a novel form and a luxury for Roman households. By the end of the century, however, innovations in technique allowed for cheaper and less labor-intensive production, making it affordable to people of lesser means. Blown glass nearly supplanted ceramic and even bronze wares in popularity. This prestige carried well into the Byzantine period.
-
Status
- Currently Off View
-
Department
- Arts of Greece, Rome, and Byzantium
-
Culture
- Ancient Mediterranean
-
Title
- Pitcher
-
Place
- Mediterranean Region (Object made in)
-
Date
- 101 CE–500 CE
-
Medium
- Glass, blown technique
-
Dimensions
- 11.4 × 6 × 6 cm (4 1/2 × 2 3/8 × 2 3/8 in.)
-
Credit Line
- Gift of Theodore W. and Frances S. Robinson
-
Reference Number
- 1947.917
-
IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/61982/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.