Alabastron
Object NameAlabastron
Date6th-5th century BCE
OriginEastern Mediterranean
MediumGlass, core-formed
Dimensions4 5/8 × 1 1/2 in. diameter(11.7 × 3.8 cm)
ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Glass
Credit LinePurchased by Curator's Club and given to University Museums. In the permanent collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object numberum89.44
Status
Not on viewCollections
CultureEastern Mediterranean
Label TextThis core-formed vessel takes its name from an Egyptian prototype made of alabaster. It is particularly unique due to its large size and virtually flawless white coloration. The shape, primarily the wide lip, indicates that the vessel was probably used as a receptacle for scented oil or perfume. The lip, once covered or smeared with the vessel's contents, would have been used as an applicator. The small duck-head handles were used to suspend the alabastron from the wrist or neck by a string.
The rarity of glass dating from this period enhances our notion that these vessels were shipped around the ancient world filled with perfumes and scented oils. Many contemporary perfumes are marketed in similar fashion: elegantly boxed and contained in distinguishing glass bottles.
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Brunnier Art Museum
Object Name: Vase
Durand Glass Works division of Vineland Flint Glassworks
1924-1932
Object number: 3.15.104
Object Name: Vase
Durand Glass Works division of Vineland Flint Glassworks
1924-1932
Object number: UM2012.151
Object Name: Vase
Durand Glass Works division of Vineland Flint Glassworks
1924-1932
Object number: UM2012.111
Object Name: Table Lamp
Durand Glass Works division of Vineland Flint Glassworks
1924-1932
Object number: UM2000.79abcd
Object Name: Lamp
Durand Glass Works division of Vineland Flint Glassworks
1924-1932
Object number: UM2012.197ab