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Ampulla (Flask) of Saint Menas

Byzantine (Egypt)

5th–6th century

Not on view

This molded earthenware ampulla (flask) features the image of Saint Menas, his arms outstretched in a gesture of prayer (orant). An important figure in African Christianity, Saint Menas was a Roman soldier martyred in the third or fourth century. He appears framed by two camels, which are believed to have carried his body after his death to the site of his burial. Flasks such as this were produced for pilgrims from across Africa and the Mediterranean basin who visited this site.

Ampulla (Flask) of Saint Menas, Earthenware, molded, Byzantine (Egypt) — This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Title: Ampulla (Flask) of Saint Menas

Date: 5th–6th century

Culture: Byzantine (Egypt)

Medium: Earthenware, molded

Dimensions: 4 × 2 5/8 × 7/8 in. (10.2 × 6.6 × 2.3 cm)

Classification: Terracottas

Credit Line: The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Bruce Ferrini in memory of Robert P. Bergman (1999.231)

Rights and Reproduction: Courtesy of The Cleveland Museum of Art

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Medieval Art and The Cloisters at The Met

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world, encompassing the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome to the beginning of the Renaissance.