Terracotta alabastron (oil flask) 625 BC

This terracotta alabastron, or oil flask, now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was made by an anonymous artist. Imagine ancient hands holding this vessel, the scent of perfumed oil rising from its opening. This object offers a glimpse into a world where aesthetics and everyday life were intimately intertwined. The painted figures of what appear to be heraldic lions connect to themes of power and protection. Consider the act of anointing the body with oil. This was more than a simple grooming ritual. It was a sensuous act of self-care, imbued with cultural meaning, and a signifier of status. It speaks to the ways in which personal care practices are laden with layers of identity, gender, and class. Though the artist remains unknown, this flask serves as a testament to their skill and the rich tapestry of lived experience in the ancient world.