Origin: Egypt
Circa: 300 AD to 500 AD
Collection: Roman
Style: Roman Period/Coptic
Medium: Terracotta
Additional Information: Sold
With the triumph of Christianity, the cults of local saints sprang up throughout the Roman Empire. Sites of miracles, martyrdoms or burial were popular for pilgrimages, and the faithful would sometimes travel great distances in hopes of being blessed or cured. The oasis spring of Saint Menas near Alexandria was especially popular, for its waters were thought to contain benevolent powers. In the twilight of the Classical age, this charming little flask was filled with water from the shrine and then carried home by some pilgrim. On one side it shows the saint between two kneeling camels, while on the other is a Greek inscription of blessing. As we hold it in our hands today, we cannot help but wonder who first held it centuries ago, and if their prayers were granted.Found near Alexandria - (PF.1823)

Antiquities
Ancient Egyptian