This slightly irregular globular bottle has a flattened base and a cylindrical neck that is sunken where it joins the body. The molded decoration, blown in a single part mold, consists of vertical ribbings running around the globular body of the vessel. Ribbing was one of the most common decorative patterns used during this period. The surface of the jar is slightly weathered, resulting in a tinted patina and iridescence. The small bottle is appealing because of its dark, almost black colour.
The discovery, in the first century BC, that molten glass could be inflated to create a variety of shapes quickly and efficiently revolutionised glass production. Molds have been used continuously ever since and remain one of the most common tools of the glassmaker. The technique spread from the eastern Mediterranean region, where it originated and wa later practised in all Islamic glassmaking areas.

Jars of this kind were designed to hold precious liquids such as perfumes and oils. (LK)