Hexagonal Jar with Multiple Handles

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Hexagonal Jar with Multiple Handles

Place of OriginLikely Syria, reportedly found in Hebron, West Bank

Date6th-early 7th century

DimensionsH: 4 5/16 in. (11 cm); Diam (rim): 2 1/16 in. (5.25 cm); Diam (body): 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); W Base: 2 5/16 in. (5.8 cm)

Mediumglass

ClassificationGlass

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

Object number

1953.138

Not on View

DescriptionA transparent, pale green glass jar with a hexagonal body and five applied handles. The vessel features a kicked base, a horizontal shoulder, and a deeply concave neck leading to a hollow rim folded outward, upward, inward, and downward. Five translucent, grayish-olive green coil handles connect the shoulder to the rim. The body is decorated with six rectangular panels in sunken relief. Panels 1 and 4 display two and a half lozenges (diamonds) with central circles; Panels 2 and 5 feature a lattice or net pattern; and Panels 3 and 6 depict a stylized palm branch (tree) with recessed branches. The underside of the base features a star with six forked arms.

Label TextThis six-sided jar belongs to a class of vessels known as "pilgrim jars," produced in the Holy Land during the Byzantine period. Often filled with oil or earth from sacred sites, these durable souvenirs were carried home by Jewish and Christian travelers alike. While many such jars bear specific religious symbols—like a menorah or a cross—this example features neutral geometric patterns and stylized trees, perhaps to appeal to a wider range of buyers. What makes this particular vessel unique is its five handles; most jars of this type have only one or two. This elaboration suggests it may have been a deluxe version or intended for suspension, possibly as a lamp. It was purchased in 1953 from Susette Khayat, who reported that it was found at Hebron.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. 182, p. 262.