Bottle with Two Applied Faces

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Bottle with Two Applied Faces

Place of OriginEastern Mediterranean, perhaps Syria

Date6th-7th century

DimensionsH: 3 15/16 in. (10.1 cm ); Max Diam: 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm)

MediumGlass; blown, with applied and tooled decoration, applied rigaree and coils decoration, and two applied bearded face masks.

ClassificationGlass

Credit LineGift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1923.2042

Not on View

DescriptionA small, globular glass vessel, free-blown and tooled, with applied rigaree (thread decoration) and medallion-like flattened glass trails forming frames for two intaglio-stamped face masks. The bottle has a narrow neck with a small mouth, and a separately applied foot. The glass shows surface weathering and iridescence, and is mottled with dark inclusions, possibly metallic (identified as copper). The surface bears chips, particularly on the rim.

Published ReferencesLamm, C. J., Mittelalaterliche Gläser und Steinschnitt-arbeiten aus dem Nahen Osten, Berlin, 1929-1930, p. 62.Exhibition HistoryWorcester Art Museum; Cleveland Museum of Art; Baltimore Museum of Art, Antioch: the Lost Ancient City, 2000-2001.