Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
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 A.D., 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.
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Byzantine — Double-Handled Flask
China — Small Double-Gourd Bottle
China — Miniature Vase
China — Gourd-Shaped Vase
China — Miniature Bottle-Shaped Vase
Ancient Mediterranean — Bottle
China — Vase with Trumpet-Shaped Mouth
Scotland — Tappit Hen
China — Garlic-Head Vase
Ancient Egyptian — Vessel
China — Bottle with Garlic-shaped Mouth
China — Amphora-Shaped Vase