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Ancient Eastern Mediterranean

Aryballos (Container for Oil)

late 6th-5th century BCE
Glass, core-formed technique
5.6 × 5.6 cm (2.2 × 2.2 in)

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

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Containers like this one were used to store precious oils. The flaring rim functioned as an applicator to spread the thick, scented oil over the skin; while the vessel itself was designed to fit comfortably in the user's hand.

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