Alabastron (Container for Scented Oil)

Description

The flaring rims of these alabastra functioned as applicators to spread the thick, scented oil over the skin. The vessels themselves fit comfortably in the user's hand.

Provenance

Theodore W. and Frances S. Robinson, Chicago, by 1931; given to the Art Institute of Chicago, 1941.

Alabastron (Container for Scented Oil)

Ancient Eastern Mediterranean

late 6th-early 3rd century BCE

Accession Number

43326

Medium

Glass, core-formed technique

Dimensions

10.4 × 2.5 × 2.5 cm (4 1/8 × 1 × 1 in.)

Classification

container

Museum

The Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, United States

Credit Line

Gift of Theodore W. and Frances S. Robinson