Pan 1821 - 1829

This small bowl, titled "Pan," was likely created in the Roman Empire using the technique of glass blowing. The slightly greenish tint suggests that the raw materials weren’t perfectly refined – perhaps iron was present in the sand from which the glass was made. Notice how the glassblower has manipulated the molten material, creating subtle ribs that radiate outward. The rim of the bowl is carefully finished, adding a touch of refinement. Glassblowing, though seemingly magical, relied on skilled labor, often performed by enslaved people. The efficiency of Roman glass production allowed such objects to be widely distributed. "Pan" reminds us that even everyday items can be deeply embedded in social and economic realities, reflecting both human ingenuity and the complexities of the ancient world. Considering its material and production invites us to reconsider distinctions between art, craft, and industry.