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Double Head-shaped Jug with Crimped Handle: Two Childlike Faces, One Serious, One Smiling

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Double Head-shaped Jug with Crimped Handle: Two Childlike Faces, One Serious, One Smiling

Place of OriginEastern Mediterranean, Possibly Syria or Palestine
DateFourth century
DimensionsH: 3 5/16 in. (8.4 cm); H (Body): 2 in. (5.1 cm); Max Diam: 1 15/16 in. (4.9 cm); Rim Diam: 1 5/16 in. (3.4 cm); Base Diam (nose to nose): 1 9/16 in. (3.9 cm)
MediumRim and neck free blown. Body blown into a two-part mold of two vertical sections, probably open at the base (MCT IX).
ClassificationGlass
Credit LineGift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number
1923.520
Not on View
DescriptionThis Roman glass jug is shaped like two young faces joined back to back—one smiling and one serious. The vessel was formed using a mold, with details like coiled decoration around the neck and a handle crimped into three ridges. Though weathered, the original form and expression remain visible, reflecting glassmaking techniques of the fourth century.
Published ReferencesStern, E. Marianne, Roman Mold-blown Glass: the First through Sixth Centuries, "L'Erma" di Bretschneider in Association with the Toledo Museum of Art, Rome, Italy, 1995, cat. no. 162, p. 242, color plate 27, p. 62.

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