Early Byzantine Terracotta Pilgrim Flask (ampulla)

Circa 6th to 7th century CE 
From the major Coptic Christian pilgrimage shrine of Abu Mena, located southwest of Alexandria in Egypt. Mold-made from a light buff-to-tan earthenware, the lentoid vessel features a rounded, biconvex body flanked by two sturdy arched loop handles spanning from the upper shoulder to the cylindrical neck. The central raised medallion depicts Saint Menas standing in the traditional orant posture of early Christian prayer with outstretched arms, flanked at his feet by two kneeling camels in reference to the miraculous legend surrounding the selection of his burial site. Encircling the central figural composition is a decorative border of raised relief pellets. Typically measuring approximately 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) in height + custom base, these vessels served as portable sacred eulogiai ("blessings") manufactured in large quantities to hold holy oil from the saint's crypt lamps or sanctified water from the site's miraculous springs. 

Preserving intact handles and an intact flared rim, the vessel displays authentic age characteristics, including burial encrustations, light surface abrasions, and softening across the high relief points

Ex Upper East Side Private NY Collector