Vase millefiori Probably Syria, 8th-9th century Made... Lot 50

Vase millefiori Probably Syria, 8th-9th century Made of multicoloured glass, with globular pase and high straight neck, decorated with eyes in shades of aubergine, ochre, green and white H. 8 cm The use of mosaic cane to simplify the production of eyes on glass beads probably developed during the Hellenistic period. Before that time, eyes had been created by superimposing glass of different colours, creating so-called laminated eyes. The new technique was used in combination with other decorative motifs, as can be seen in this bottle, which has concentric circles surrounding the eyes. It was probably made in the Islamic world. Examples have been found in Syria and Iran. Islamic glass bead makers had the skills to produce multicoloured canes. This decoration illustrates the enduring use of the eye, which was incorporated into various cultures, made in complex patterns and used as a source of protection. Millefiori vase, Probably Syria, 8th-9th century