ampulla
- Museum number
- 1882,0510.50
- Description
-
Ampulla; clay; flat, circular sides with designs in relief. On side (a), within a border of small studs, Saint Menas stands to front, his arms outstretched in blessing. Above each arm is a quincunx of raised points, representing a cross. He wears a short tunic and a long cloak, and is flanked by camels. On side (b), within a border of large studs and a beaded circle, is a woman's head, almost full face, perhaps Saint Thekla, or possibly Saint Catherine of Alexandria. One handle is largely lost.
- Production date
- 480-650 (circa)
- Dimensions
-
Height: 3.62 inches
- Curator's comments
- Terracotta IV
Purchased: Greville J. Chester.
Late Roman, about AD 480-650.
Comparanda: Sides (a) and (b): close: Dutilh 1904: pls 1 and 2, fig. 15, from Alexandria.
Side (a): close: Lunsingh Scheurleer 1998: 3, fig. 4, centre; Pagenstecher 1913: 93, fig. 106:4, from Alexandria; Strzygowski 1904: pl. xxi:8972, from Alexandria. Near: Witt 2000: no. 20 (both sides), dated end of fifth to mid-seventh century AD.
Side (b): close: Kakovkin 1996: 72, fig. 16:4; Kaufmann 1910: 134, fig. 76, interpreted as the young St. Menas.
Bibliog: Murray 1907:
- Location
- Not on display
- Acquisition date
- 1882
- Department
- Britain, Europe and Prehistory
- Registration number
- 1882,0510.50
