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Description
Description
This exquisite Roman glass jar, dating back to the 1st century CE, was discovered in the ancient city of Jericho, Israel. Designed with a flared neck and rounded body, this jar was used to store cosmetic balms, a luxury in the Roman and biblical worlds. These balms, often made from fragrant oils, resins, and herbs, were essential for grooming and self-care among the elite.
The shimmering iridescence on its surface, formed over centuries of burial, highlights the exceptional craftsmanship of Roman glassblowers. This cosmetic balm jar not only served a practical purpose but also reflected the refinement and sophistication of its owner, making it both a functional item and a symbol of status.
Biblical Significance
Cosmetic balms and fragrant oils are frequently referenced in biblical texts, often linked to beauty, anointing, and purification rituals. In Esther 2:12, balms and oils are described as part of beauty treatments. Found in Jericho, a city famously mentioned in the Bible, this jar provides a tangible link to the everyday and ceremonial practices of the people who lived during Jesus’ time.
Weight: 20.6 grams
Height: 5.5 cm
Period and Time
Period and Time
Early Roman Empire (27 BCE – 284 CE)
Jericho, known as "the city of palm trees" in the Bible, was a significant cultural and trade hub during the 1st century CE. The presence of Roman glass artifacts like this balm jar underscores the city’s integration into Roman trade networks and the adoption of Roman luxury items. This jar reflects the blend of Roman innovation with local traditions, offering insight into the daily lives and grooming customs of the time.
Material
Material
Hand-blown Roman glass
Crafted using silica-rich sand and natron, this jar showcases the artistry of free-blown glass techniques. Its small size, rounded body, and flared neck were designed to store and dispense cosmetic balms efficiently. Over time, burial in Jericho's mineral-rich soil gave it a distinctive iridescent sheen, enhancing its aesthetic and historical value. Roman glass was celebrated for its durability and beauty, making it ideal for storing valuable substances like cosmetic balms.
