Parthian / Sasanian Glazed Ceramic Rare & Heavy Near Eastern Albarello Vessel

Rare & Heavy Near Eastern Glazed Albarello Vessel with Intense Silver & Gold Iridescence – Parthian / Sasanian (c. 3rd–7th Century AD) An unusual and tactile example of ancient Near Eastern glazed ceramics, dating from the late Parthian to Sasanian Empire period (c. 3rd – 7th Century AD). The vessel features a heavy cylindrical-conical body tapering slightly towards a molded pedestal foot, capped by a flat rim with deep double horizontal grooves. The solid potting and notable mass (252 g) suggest it functioned as a durable storage jar (unguentarium or early albarello) designed to hold costly botanical extracts or medicinal balsams. The Phenomenon of Iridescence Originally coated in an alkaline turquoise/blue glaze, centuries of exposure to ground minerals and moisture have altered the glass-like surface. This chemical transformation has created a thick, crackled patina that reflects light with brilliant silvery-white, turquoise, and fiery gold metallic hues. This optical phenomenon (silver iridescence) is one of the most highly prized aesthetic traits among collectors of ancient Near Eastern and Islamic glass and glazed ceramics. Technical Specifications: Object: Heavy Glazed Utility / Unguent Vessel Culture / Region: Near Eastern (Mesopotamian / Parthian / Sasanian) Date: c. 3rd – 7th Century AD Height: 127 mm (12.7 cm) Weight: 252 g (Extremely dense / solid) Material: Earthenware with weathered alkaline glaze Included: Custom clear acrylic display base Condition Report: Structure: Body, rim, and foot structure are completely solid and intact with crisp molded details. Base: Features a natural burial piercing/hole through the center of the base (clearly documented in close-up photographs), confirming soil context and antiquity. Surface: Excellent state of iridescent devitrification with authentic soil adhesion. Completely free of modern restoration, re-glazing, or artificial fills.

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