Bowl
Unknown Artist
4th–7th century
Medium
Earthenware
Dimensions
H: 2 5/16 in. (5.9 cm); Diameter: 5 7/8 in. (15 cm)
Classification
Ceramics
Culture
Coptic
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1925
Accession Number
25.10.20.230
Tags
Art Historical Context
This unassuming earthenware bowl, by an unknown Coptic artisan between the 4th and 7th centuries, offers glimpse into the daily life of early Christian Egypt. Measuring just 2 5/16 inches high and 5 7/8 inches in diameter it exemplifies the practical ceramics produced in the Nile Valley during a transformative era. As Coptic culture emerged—blending ancient Egyptian traditions with Christianity—these vessels were essential household items, used for serving food or storing goods in monastic communities or rural homes. Coptic pottery like this bowl highlights the region's enduring ceramic techn...