Byzantine

Pitcher

5th-6th century
Glass, mold-blown technique
6.6 × 4.9 cm (2.6 × 1.9 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

Byzantine glassmakers refined the techniques they inherited from their Roman predecessors, creating objects with increasingly elaborate forms and complex decorative elements to flaunt their skills. Cosmetic containers were often adorned with fine strands (trails) of glass that required a steady hand and rapid execution, while other vessels look quite complex yet were easily made. Glass continued to be used in objects of personal adornment such as jewelry, both as a material in its own right and to imitate precious stones, offering more affordable options for what was in fashion.

Source ↗

Be the first to share your thoughts.

Sign in to join the discussion.

Community guidelines

More by Byzantine

NecklaceNecklaceJarJarKohl ContainerKohl ContainerSolidus (Coin) of Emperor Theodosius ISolidus (Coin) of Emperor Theodosius IMosaic Fragment with Man Leading a GiraffeMosaic Fragment with Man Leading a GiraffeDouble-Handled FlaskDouble-Handled FlaskRitual FlaskRitual FlaskSolidus (Coin) of Empress IreneSolidus (Coin) of Empress Irene

More like this

Pear-Shaped BottleChina — Pear-Shaped BottleChrysanthemum Petal BottleChina — Chrysanthemum Petal BottleJugAncient Roman — JugWillow-Leaf Bottle VaseChina — Willow-Leaf Bottle VaseDouble Gourd-Shaped VaseChina — Double Gourd-Shaped VaseBottle-Shaped Vase with Globular BodyChina — Bottle-Shaped Vase with Globular BodySpouted EwerChina — Spouted EwerPear-Shaped VaseChina — Pear-Shaped VaseVasePierre Adrien Dalpayrat — VasePolychrome PitcherCholula — Polychrome PitcherGourd-Shaped VaseChina — Gourd-Shaped VaseHound-Handled PitcherArtist unknown — Hound-Handled Pitcher