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Ancient Eastern Mediterranean

Alabastron (Container for Scented Oil)

late 6th-early 3rd century BCE
Glass, core-formed technique
3.9 × 3.2 cm (1.5 × 1.3 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

The flaring rims of these alabastra functioned as applicators to spread the thick, scented oil over the skin. The vessels themselves fit comfortably in the user's hand.

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