Octagonal Ribbed Bottle c. 18th century

This octagonal ribbed bottle was crafted anonymously, its blue hue and ribbed texture carrying more than meets the eye. The octagonal shape, a subtle yet significant choice, might echo the ancient symbolism of the octagon as a transitional form. Consider the Baptisteries, from the early Christian period, often octagonal, representing the passage from earthly life to spiritual rebirth. The repeated vertical ribs bring to mind the fluted columns of classical architecture, structures meant to convey stability, strength, and order. And yet, this bottle is fragile, made of glass—a paradox of form and material. The color, a melancholic blue, evokes the vastness of the sky and sea, symbolizing contemplation, depth, and perhaps a hint of melancholy. Think of ancient vessels, once holding precious liquids, now relics of forgotten rituals. This bottle, though simple, taps into a deep well of human longing—our desire to preserve, contain, and give meaning to the ephemeral.