1913.69.15

Egyptian pottery pilgrim flask (grey pottery) featuring an Egyptian martyr of the Christian Church called St. Menas. Relief decoration on both sides: on one is a cross surrounded by concentric circles; on the other is St Menas, arms raised in benediction, with a camel on either side of him. These flasks were used for holding oil blessed in connection with the Saint. Most examples date to the 6th and 7th centuries AD.

6th-7th century