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Description
Description
This delicate Roman glass jar, dating back to the 1st century CE, was likely used to store and dispense anointing oils, which were a vital part of religious and cultural practices in the Roman and biblical worlds. Its design features a narrow neck for careful pouring and a rounded body for stability and efficient storage. The shimmering iridescence, a result of centuries of interaction with the surrounding soil, highlights the artistry of Roman glassmakers, who were celebrated for their ability to blend beauty with practicality.
Anointing oils, often made from olive oil infused with aromatic spices, were central to rituals of consecration, purification, and healing during the biblical era. This jar is a tangible representation of the cultural and spiritual practices that shaped daily life during the time of Jesus.
Biblical Significance
Anointing oils are repeatedly mentioned in the Bible as symbols of divine blessing, healing, and sanctification. In passages such as Exodus 30:22-25, sacred oils are described in detail, emphasizing their spiritual importance. Jesus Himself was anointed in preparation for His burial (Mark 14:3-9). A vessel like this may have held similar oils used in religious and personal rituals, bridging Roman craftsmanship with the spiritual traditions of the biblical world.
Weight: 19.4
Height: 6 cm
Period and Time
Period and Time
Early Roman Empire (27 BCE – 284 CE)
The 1st century CE was a time of Roman dominance, during which glassmaking reached new levels of sophistication. Anointing oils, essential for religious ceremonies and personal care, were often stored in elegant glass jars such as this one. These vessels were both functional and symbolic, highlighting the interplay between Roman innovation and local customs.
Material
Material
Hand-blown Roman glass
Crafted using silica-rich sand and natron, this jar exemplifies the advanced glassblowing techniques of the Roman Empire. The narrow neck allowed precise dispensing, while the rounded base ensured stability. Over time, chemical reactions with the surrounding soil created a radiant iridescent patina, making this artifact as visually captivating today as it was practical in antiquity. Roman glassware was valued for its ability to preserve delicate substances like anointing oils.
