Bowl

Unknown

3rd century BC–1st century AD · Ceramic · Ancient Near Eastern Art

This bowl has a flat bottom, straight rim and gently curving sides. It is made of a pale gray clay, using a potter’s wheel. It was excavated at Shahr-i Qumis in northern Iran, which has been identified as the ancient city of Hecatompylos, established by the Parthians as their capital by about 200 B.C. In Greek Hecatompylos means ‘a hundred gates,’ suggesting that the city was quite large. Indeed, the modern archaeological site includes several mounds, only a few of which have been excavated, and a vast area covered with potsherds. This vessel comes from Site VI, a building which has been interpreted as a fortified garrison. It was most likely a drinking vessel, probably for wine. Indeed, clay bullae used to seal wine jars have been found elsewhere at the site.

Artist

Unknown

Date

3rd century BC–1st century AD

Medium

Ceramic

Culture

Parthian

Department

Ancient Near Eastern Art

Credit line

Purchase, H. Dunscombe Colt Gift, 1969