Ointment Bottle

7th–8th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 300

Its small size and elegant manufacture suggest that this bottle may have been used to carry oils or ointments to the public baths. The patterns of concentric circles may have been intended to protect the owner from evil.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Ointment Bottle
Date: 7th–8th century
Geography: Attributed to Syria or Egypt
Medium: Bronze
Dimensions: H. 4 3/4 in. (12.1 cm)
Diam. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm)
Classification: Metal
Credit Line: Purchase, 1900
Object Number: 00.13.15
Curatorial Department: Islamic Art

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