Amphoriskos (Small Amphora)

AD 50–100

Amphoriskos (Small Amphora), AD 50–100. Roman. Glass, mold-blown; diameter: 2.5 cm (1 in.); overall: 7.5 x 3.5 cm (2 15/16 x 1 3/8 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, General Income Fund 1919.12 First blown in a mold, then supplied with separately made handles, this small vessel likely held perfumed oil, a valuable commodity. Originally violet in color, its surface is now partially marred by areas of buff and iridescent weathering. The finely ribbed body is quite elegant, however, and its extravagant modern box attests to its significant value for a modern owner (prior to 1919). Although much smaller, glass amphoriskoi (“small amphorae”) are similar in form to ceramic transport amphorae.