Amphoriskos (Container for Oil) c. early 5th century

This small vessel was created from glass in the ancient Eastern Mediterranean, sometime in the first millennium BCE. The shape is known as an amphoriskos, a miniature version of the larger amphora used for transporting and storing oil, wine, or grain. Though modest in scale, this object speaks volumes about the cultural and economic landscape of its time. The vibrant blue color, achieved through the addition of cobalt, and the delicate white marbling, suggest it was a luxury item, crafted for the wealthy elite. Glassmaking itself was a complex and specialized craft, indicative of a society with a sophisticated division of labor and trade networks spanning vast distances. Was it used for perfumed oil, meant for personal adornment, or a votive offering? Understanding this vessel requires us to consider not only its aesthetic qualities but also the social structures that enabled its creation and use. Through archaeological records, trade routes, and studies of ancient social practices, we can begin to piece together the world in which this small object once played a significant role.