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Identification and Creation

Object Number
1955.128
Title
Aryballos (oil flask)
Classification
Vessels
Work Type
vessel
Date
1st-2nd century CE
Period
Roman Imperial period
Culture
Roman
Persistent Link
https://hvrd.art/o/291311

Physical Descriptions

Medium
Blue-green glass
Technique
Free-blown glass
Dimensions
6.6 x 6.1 cm (2 5/8 x 2 3/8 in.)

Provenance

Recorded Ownership History
Aimée and Rosamond Lamb, Milton, MA (by 1955), gift; to the Fogg Art Museum, 1955.

Acquisition and Rights

Credit Line
Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Gift of the Misses Aimée and Rosamond Lamb
Accession Year
1955
Object Number
1955.128
Division
Asian and Mediterranean Art
Contact
am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu
Permissions

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Descriptions

Description
Aryballos; slightly indented base, oblate body, double ring mouth, two applied ribbon handles. Intact; minimal dirt on interior, slight iridescent sheen.
Commentary
Aryballoi were used to store oils and are associated with bathing. In size, the vessels are generally no more than 5-8cm in height.

Glass aryballoi were produced in the first half of the first century CE in a thin-walled, colored version, however, the more common thick-walled type seen here became popular towards the end of the first century CE.

Subjects and Contexts

  • Roman Domestic Art

Verification Level

This record has been reviewed by the curatorial staff but may be incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. For more information please contact the Division of Asian and Mediterranean Art at am_asianmediterranean@harvard.edu