Mark 12:41-44
Roman Glass Vessel for Funerary or Ritual Use | Time of Jesus Roman Period Artifact 1st Century AD
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Description
Description
This ancient Roman glass vessel, dating back to the 1st century CE, was specifically crafted for funerary or ritual use, symbolizing the sacred and personal aspects of life and death in the ancient world. The elegant rounded body and flared neck exemplify the advanced craftsmanship of Roman glassmakers. Its golden, translucent surface, now accented with an iridescent patina from centuries of burial, lends this piece a timeless beauty.
Vessels like this were commonly used in funerary practices to hold offerings such as oils, perfumes, or even symbolic liquids for the deceased. They were also employed in rituals to honor the gods or ancestors. This artifact bridges Roman innovation with deeply spiritual traditions, making it both a practical object and a powerful symbol of devotion and memory.
Biblical Significance
Rituals of honoring the dead and sacred anointings are prominent in biblical narratives. The practice of preparing the body with oils and perfumes before burial, such as the anointing of Jesus' body (Mark 16:1), reflects the significance of vessels like this in both Roman and Jewish traditions. This glass vessel offers a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the biblical world, connecting it to themes of remembrance and sanctity.
Weight: 33.4 grams
Height: 7.5 cm
Period and Time
Period and Time
Early Roman Empire (27 BCE – 284 CE)
During the 1st century CE, Roman funerary and ritual practices emphasized the preservation of memory and the honoring of the deceased. Glass vessels were often buried with the dead as offerings or used in rituals to symbolize life, death, and continuity. The craftsmanship of this vessel reflects the blending of Roman artistry with local traditions, highlighting its use in both secular and sacred contexts during a transformative era in the biblical lands.
Material
Material
Hand-blown Roman glass
This vessel was made from silica-rich sand and natron, a hallmark of Roman glassmaking. The free-blown technique allowed artisans to create its rounded body and flared neck, making it ideal for pouring or holding sacred substances. The stunning iridescence, a result of chemical reactions with the soil over time, enhances its historical and visual significance. These vessels were prized for their durability and their role in funerary and ritual settings.