Albarello, or storage jar, with tear-drop shapes

Dated to the early 1200s, this small jar is one of the earliest known ceramic examples of an albarello, or storage jar. In the medieval and early modern periods this form became popular beyond the Muslim world, particularly in Spain and Italy. Albarelli were primarily used to store herbs and other substances used for medical purposes.

Details

Title

Albarello, or storage jar, with tear-drop shapes
Associated place

Syria (place of creation)
Date

early 13th century
Material and technique

fritware, with painting in black under a turquoise glaze
Material index

fritware
Technique index

painted;

glazed
Object type

albarello
Dimensions

21.3 cm (height)
12.5 cm (diameter)
at mouth 8.7 cm (diameter)
No. of items

1
Credit line

Presented by Sir Alan Barlow, 1956.
Museum location

not on display
Museum department

Eastern Art
Accession no.

EA1956.178