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Askos

200–1 BCE
agate and gold
Overall: 6.5 cm (2 9/16 in.)
Andrew R. and Martha Holden Jennings Fund 1964.92
Location: 102C Greek
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Did You Know?

The knob on the lid connects to a hidden disk to control the flow of liquid.

Description

This miniature vessel was carved from a single piece of banded agate, polished to a shine, and embellished with a gold lid and gold details on the base. Inside the ring of gold at the base is a trio of gold papyrus stalks, a likely reference to Egypt. In shape, it resembles an ancient wineskin, or askos, though its small size suggests use for luxury perfumes or oils. A tiny crab, likely once inlaid with a precious material, has been carved behind the handle.
Askos

Askos

200–1 BCE

Greece, Ptolemaic Dynasty

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