Ancient Mediterranean

Jar

5th century
Glass, blown technique
8.6 × 8 cm (3.4 × 3.1 in)

SEE IT IN PERSON

Not currently on view

In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

View at artic.eduPlan a visit ↗

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Initially affordable only among the wealthy, glass was used in ancient Rome as containers for oils, perfume, and tablewares. The variety of glass-making techniques reveals the changing tastes and fashions over the centuries. During the 1st century CE, cast glass was a novel form that was a luxury for the Roman household, but by the end of the century, the innovation of blown glass allowed for less labor-intensive and less expensive production, which meant people of lesser means could afford it. Blown glass became so popular it nearly supplanted ceramic and even bronze wares in the home.

Source ↗

Be the first to share your thoughts.

Sign in to join the discussion.

Community guidelines

More by Ancient Mediterranean

Necklace with AmuletsNecklace with AmuletsBottle in the Shape of a BirdBottle in the Shape of a BirdCosmetic ApplicatorCosmetic ApplicatorFragment of an InlayFragment of an InlayVaseVaseBottleBottleBottleBottleAmphoriskos (Container for Oil)Amphoriskos (Container for Oil)

More like this

BeakerAncient Roman — BeakerJar with Mock Loop HandlesChina — Jar with Mock Loop HandlesJarIslamic — JarJarChina — JarJarIslamic — JarFlaskAncient Roman — FlaskOil BottleKorea — Oil BottleFlaskByzantine — FlaskJarAncient Roman — JarJarAncient Roman — JarBottleAncient Roman — BottleStorage Jar (Hu) with Hunting ScenesChina — Storage Jar (Hu) with Hunting Scenes