New photography by Shannon Ruff captured with a digital camera-2006.

Jerusalem Pilgrim Vessel/Jug

Manufacturer Unknown

Date578-614 A.D.

MediumMold blown glass

DimensionsOverall: 5 in. (12.7 cm)

ClassificationsGlass

Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

Object number71.6774

Terms

Judaica
Amber

On View

On view

DescriptionJug/Jerusalem Pilgrim Vessel of mold blown dark amber glass. Hexagonal body with intaglio design of Jewish symbols. 1.625" high round neck with a funnel type top pinched for the lip. Rim folded in. Attached irregular half strap-type and half hollow handle from rim to shoulder.

Label TextByzantine Empire, Probably Jerusalem Pilgrim Jug with Jewish Symbols, ca. 578-636 A.D. Mold-blown glass; applied handle Gift of Walter Chrysler Jr. 71.6774 From the fifth through the mid-seventh centuries A.D., glass bottles and jars with Christian or Jewish symbolism were made in Syrian and Palestinian workshops. Important religious sites were located in the Syro-Palestinian region, especially centered in Jerusalem. Increasing numbers of pilgrims to the area gave glassblowers incentive to create a souvenir trade. Workers blew the glass into full-sized molds bearing images of saints, crosses, birds, menorah, and other religious symbols. Pilgrims could buy jars and fill them with holy oil (eulogiae), water, or dirt from the holy shrines and tombs visited along their route.