Cylindrical Box (Pyxis)
Cylindrical Box (Pyxis)
Place of OriginAncient Rome, probably Syria or Palestine
DateFirst half of the first century
DimensionsH: 1 7/16 in. (3.6 cm); Rim Diam: 2 5/8 in. (6.6 cm); Diam: 2 5/8 in. (6.6 cm); Base Diam: 1 7/16 in. (3.7 cm)
MediumGlass; mold-blown.
ClassificationGlass
Credit LineGift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number
1923.489
Not on View
DescriptionThis cylindrical box, or pyxis, was mold-blown from thin, transparent glass, possibly colorless. The vessel was formed in a three-part mold consisting of two vertical sections joined to a cup-shaped base section (MCT V F). Mold seams are effectively hidden within the stems of the decorative motifs, and the relief is moderately crisp.
The box features a straight, unworked rim and a short cylindrical body with mold-blown ridges. It has a stepped bottom and a hollow base ring. The flat underside of the base displays three raised circles. A decorative frieze encircles the body between two horizontal ridges, consisting of four stylized, symmetrical plant motifs. These alternate with ring-shaped flowers and circlets.
Published ReferencesStern, E. Marianne, Roman Mold-blown Glass: The First through Sixth Centuries, Rome, "L'Erma" di Bretschneider, 1995, p. 172, no. 83.Second half of the first century CE
Second half of the first century CE
Second half of the first century CE
Probably second half of the first century
First half of first century
Probably second half of the 1st century
First century
First half of the first century
First half of first century
Probably first half of first century
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