Glass pendant in the shape of a Black African’s head

2nd–1st century BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 171
Uncertain color, possibly deep purple, appearing black.

Solid, vertical pendant, with prominent mold marks running up sides of head and under neck; aslant suspension loop on top of head.

Shaped like the head of a Black African. Most of surface covered in enamel-like greenish weathering.

With handle on top; head of a youth; opaque brown.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Glass pendant in the shape of a Black African’s head
  • Period: Hellenistic
  • Date: 2nd–1st century BCE
  • Culture: Greek, Eastern Mediterranean
  • Medium: Glass; cast in a two-part mold
  • Dimensions: 7/8 × 7/16 × 3/8 in. (2.3 × 1.1 × 1 cm)
  • Classification: Glass
  • Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
  • Object Number: 17.194.424
  • Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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