Ancient Egyptian Amphoriskos - 12.5 cm

Hellenistic Core-Formed Glass Amphoriskos from the Eastern Mediterranean This finely worked core-formed glass amphoriskos originates from the eastern Mediterranean and is dated to the Hellenistic period, between the 2nd century BCE and the middle of the 1st century BCE. The vessel is made of opaque blue glass and is decorated with applied yellow and white glass threads that are spirally wound around the rim and neck. Below the shoulder, these glass threads are carefully combed into a feather-like pattern, producing a highly refined and distinctive decorative element of Hellenistic luxury glass production. The handles and the foot knob are made of greenish transparent glass, providing an elegant contrast to the opaque body. The amphoriskos, literally “little amphora,” was a vessel form primarily used for storing precious substances such as perfumes, scented oils, cosmetics, and other valuable liquids. Because of its small size, elaborate decoration, and technically demanding production, such vessels were luxury objects associated with wealthy and elite households. The vessel was produced using the so-called core-forming technique, one of the oldest and most demanding methods of ancient glassmaking. First, a temporary core made of clay and organic material was formed into the desired shape and then covered with layers of molten glass. Decorative glass threads were applied and worked while the surface was still hot. After cooling, the inner core was removed. Comparable specimens are known from important collections, including the Morell Collection (No. M136). This amphoriskos represents an exceptional example of Hellenistic glass art, combining technical mastery, artistic decoration, and the refined aesthetics of the luxury glass production of the eastern Mediterranean. Provenance: The collection was built up over several years in the 1960s. The last objects were acquired in 1967 - Private collection, Germany, before 1960 - Private collection, Germany, Schweinfurt, Otto Schäfer, - Private collection, Germany, acquired 2023 - Private collection, Germany, gift 2024

Estimate:£1,507.66

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