● On view now — Gallery 154
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified 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 — Flask
Ancient Levantine — Sprinkler or Dropper Bottle
Ancient Mediterranean — Jar
Germany, Cologne — Bottle
China — Bottle-Shaped Vase
Byzantine — Flat Flask
Byzantine — Double-Handled Bottle
Korea — Vase with Chrysanthemum Flower Heads
Ancient Levantine — Beaker or Goblet
Ancient Mediterranean — Jar
Byzantine — Kohl Container
Islamic — Jar