Glass cylindrical bottle
Unknown Artist
4th century CE
Medium
Glass
Dimensions
H.: 8 13/16 in. (22.4 cm)
Classification
Glass
Culture & Period
Roman · Late Imperial
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
Accession Number
17.194.327
Art Historical Context
This elegant glass cylindrical bottle, dating to the 4th century CE,ails from the Late Imperial Roman period and exemplifies the everyday artistry of the ancient world. Standing at 8 13/16 inches (22.4 cm) tall, its simple, functional form was likely used to store perfumes, oils, medicines—essentials in Roman households and for personal grooming. Crafted by an unknown artisan, it reflects the widespread accessibility of glassware by this era, when the Roman Empire spanned vast territories, blending utility with subtle refinement. Roman glassmaking reached remarkable sophistication centuries e...