Bowl

Art Historical Context

This delicate glass bowl, crafted by an unknown Late Roman artisan in the late 4th to early 5th century offers a glimpse into the everyday elegance of the waning Roman Empire. Measuring just 2⅝ × 3⅖ inches (6.6 × 8.4 cm), its petite size suggests it was likely used for serving small portions of food or drink at intimate meals, reflecting the refined domestic life of the period. Acquired as a gift from J. Pierpont Morgan in 7, it now resides in the Metropolitan Museum Art's Medieval Art department, bridging the classical world and early medieval traditions. Glass vessels like this one highligh...