Artwork Page for Pilgrim’s Flask

Details / Information for Pilgrim’s Flask

Pilgrim’s Flask

c. 1099–1200

Byzantium, Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem, Palestine, Byzantine, Crusader Period, late 11th-12th Century

Medium
lead
Measurements
Overall: 4.3 x 2.9 cm (1 11/16 x 1 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Bruce Ferrini in memory of Robert P. Bergman 1999.234
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
105 Byzantine
Print

Description

After the Crusader conquest of the Holy Land in 1099, Jerusalem experienced a revival of Christian pilgrimage. During the 12th century, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher was rebuilt, redecorated, and reconsecrated. With the influx of new pilgrims, especially from Western Europe, lead ampullae (small flasks) such as this very rare example were briefly reintroduced. The flask was cast with images of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and Christ’s Descent into Limbo (Anastasis), establishing a visual connection with the holy sites of Christ’s death and entombment.
A dark gray, heavily pitted lead flask features a bulbous body and a short, cylindrical neck encircled by horizontal ridges. One of the two small loop handles on the shoulder is broken. Faint, raised relief designs on the body depict a central figure. The weathered surface is coarse-textured throughout. The vessel has a slightly flattened bottom and casts a soft shadow to its right against a gray background.

Pilgrim’s Flask

c. 1099–1200

Byzantium, Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem, Palestine, Byzantine, Crusader Period, late 11th-12th Century

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork