Description

Roman Glass Jar with Chain Decoration

During the Roman period, glass was a prettier, more delicate substitute for the clay vessels that made up the bulk of daily tableware. Blown glass vessels, such as this glass jar with a chain decoration, were much cheaper and easier to produce than the mold-made glass vessels of the previous era. Even so, glass was not as common as ceramic, and being more breakable, less of it has survived until today.

Pale greenish glass comprises this delicate glass jar. This glass color is typical of ancient glass from the Holy Land. The jar features a decoration of a chain motif around the center of the jar. The body of the jar is rounded, and it has a flattened, slightly pushed-up base for stability. The bottom of the jar features a pontil scar, evidence of the glassblowing technique used to create the jar. The neck is wide, and the rim is even wider, allowing for easy access to the contents. A piece of clean cloth tied over the rim would have protected the contents.

Height:3.5″ Inches / 8.5 CM.

Width:3.8′ Inches / 9 CM.

Jars of this shape typically held non-pourable contents, such as balms for healing. Similar jars were found in archaeological excavations along with doctor’s tools, suggesting that they held medicinal balms. The chain may simply serve as a decoration, but it is also possible that it had a symbolic function of binding illnesses.

“Assuredly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” – Matthew 18:18

Antiquities from the land of the Bible are great investments and teaching tools. They bring the Bible to life in a tangible way, connecting the stories of the Bible with real artifacts that illuminate the text.

Comes with a certificate of authenticity and all required documents for export approval.

Shipped direct from Jerusalem.

Zak’s Antiquities is the website of Zak’s fine art and antiquities located on the Christian Quarter road in Jerusalem’s Old City. The shop began in 1964 and has remained as a family owned and operated business till this day. For the past 50 years Zak’s Antiquities has sold ancient coins, antiquities and art authentic to Israel and Jerusalem.