Glass Vessels and Miniature Jugs from Khirbat Yajuz Cemetery, Jordan

Abstract

Ten intact glass vessels were retrieved from Khirbat Yajuz cemetery during the 1996 excavations. They include five jars, two flasks, a fish-shaped vessel and two miniature jugs. Their shapes, colours and techniques are studied. The vessels were either free-blown or blown in a mould, except for the miniature jugs which were made by core-winding. Jars Nos 1 and 2 and fish-shaped vessel No.8 are decorated with spiral ribbing. In addition, they have constricted necks, and black residues were found inside. The chemical analysis of the residue from Jar No. 2 indicates aromatic compounds. The fish-shaped vessel is an important religious symbol used during the early Christian period. Most of the glass objects from the cemetery were accompanied by pottery lamps. A date in the fifth-sixth centuries AD is appropriate for the glassware collection.