Hexagonal Jar with Christian Symbols

Place of OriginPalestine, probably made in the vicinity of Jerusalem

Dateabout 578-614

DimensionsH: 3 5/8 in. (9.1 cm); Diam (rim): 2 in. (5.1 cm); Diam (body): 2 13/16 in. (7.1 cm); W Base: 2 1/2 in. (6.3 cm)

MediumMold blown. Medium thin glass.

ClassificationGlass

Credit LinePurchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1936.12

Not on View

DescriptionThis small hexagonal jar is made of transparent to translucent dark brownish yellow glass. Though now weathered, its moderate relief retains considerable detail. The funnel mouth is folded four ways, narrowing at the top. The gently sloped shoulder leads into a molded hexagonal body with a slightly concave base and an off-center pontil mark (1.2 cm). Each of the six recessed-dot-bordered panels contains low-relief intaglio designs: three crosses—each with symbolic variation—and three concentric lozenge compositions. Differences from Class A I jugs include a debased motif in panel 2, less pronounced foliage in panel 5, and the reversed sequence of panels 4 and 6.

Label TextThis compact jar features six intaglio panels depicting stylized crosses and lozenge motifs. The stepped cross may reference the monumental cross pilgrims saw at Golgotha, while other panels recall the omphalos (navel) of the world or the Tree of Life. Found in only one jug and one jar, Barag’s Class A II appears to reflect a reworked mold from earlier production. The jar was likely made near Jerusalem in the late sixth century and may have held oil from the Holy Sepulcher for Christian pilgrims. Despite iridescence and surface weathering, the design remains a powerful testament to devotional craftsmanship.Published ReferencesBarag, Dan P., "Glass Pilgrim Vessels from Jerusalem, Pts. I," Journal of Glass Studies 12 (1970), p. 55 (A II 2) 58, fig. 1.

Stern, 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. 170, pp. 254-255.