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Bottle

9th–10th century
Not on view
The vessel type represented by this piece purchased in Nishapur in eastern Iran is known in English as the "molar flask" due to the distinct, tooth-like form of its base. The molar flask was a popular household item in the Islamic world between the eighth and eleventh centuries, and their wide distribution from Egypt to Iran suggests multiple centers of manufacture. Such vessels were most likely used to hold small amounts of valuable liquid perfumes. Like this bottle and the others found at Nishapur, molar flasks are usually made from monochrome glass and are often embellished with carved decorations. Examples crafted from more expensive materials like fused glass mosaic and even rock crystal are also known.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Bottle
  • Date: 9th–10th century
  • Geography: Attributed to Iran. Probably from Iran, Nishapur
  • Medium: Glass, colorless; cast or blown, cut
  • Dimensions: Ht. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)
    W. 11/16 in. (1.8 cm)
    D. 11/16 in. (1.8 cm)
  • Classification: Glass
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1937
  • Object Number: 37.40.34
  • Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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