alabastron

A type of small vessel used in the ancient world for holding oil, especially perfume or massage oils. It originated in ancient Egypt in about the 11th century BC and was originally a container carved from alabaster – hence the name - but later made of glass or pottery. From Egypt it spread via ancient Greece to other parts of the classical world.

An alabastron typically has a narrow body with a rounded base and a spreading rim. They were often left without handles, but some types were equipped with ear-shaped projections or lugs into which holes were punched. Strings were then put through these holes for easy mobility.