Perfume Flask in light blue color
Perfume Flask in light blue color
Perfume Flask in light blue color
This cut-glass bottle features a three-dimensional geometric design composed of triangular facets. Its size is typical for this class of small perfume vases. The transparent glass reveals ice-colored reflections.
10th century A.D., 9th century A.D.
H: 5.6 cm
In stock
Product Description
This cut-glass bottle features a three-dimensional geometric design composed of triangular facets. Its size is typical for this class of small perfume vases. The transparent glass reveals ice-colored reflections.
The lower section, shaped like a parallelepiped, likely rested on four pointed feet: each face is furrowed by deep lines that form a linear, geometric pattern, with a central diamond in relief. The neck, with a smooth surface, is hexagonal. The type of container to which it belongs is widely found throughout the contemporary Muslim world: its name (“molar flask” in English) derives from the shape of the four small, pointed feet found on many such flasks, which often resemble those of a molar.
Despite their attractive and varied appearance, they served a specific commercial purpose, as they were used to transport cosmetic products—presumably liquids, given their tall, narrow necks. Although often attributed to Egyptian workshops (in the city of Fustat, for example), it is more likely that the “molar vials” were produced in several different centers, as suggested by the differences in the carved motifs, shape, type of feet, and color of glass used: in addition to Egypt, workshops located in Iran are also considered a possibility.
