This small glass jug was discovered in a grave in the cemetery of Beth Shean in Israel and dates to just after the reign of Constantinius II (AD 337-361). Similar glassware, all functional, have been found in other graves in this cemetery. While the precise function of this jug is unknown, one potential function may be used in Christian blessing rituals. The glass produced at the time was strictly functional, and quite widespread, serving primarily for domestic purposes. The Christian belief of salvation removed the need for decorating tombs for the deceased’s “afterworld” journey. However, Roman's commonly continued burials with necessary everyday-life domestic and functional objects.

—Winton Petty

Catalogue Record, Penn Museum