Glass Vessel

This small glass vessel dates to the tenth century and was discovered in the area of ancient Tashkent, historically known as Shash.
During the early medieval period this region was an important center of glass production in Central Asia. Local workshops produced vessels that circulated widely along the Silk Road and were valued far beyond Mawarannahr.
The vessel is made of transparent glass with a light green tint. This color occurred naturally due to traces of iron present in the sand used in the glassmaking process.
The form of the vessel is elegant and simple: a rounded body rises into a wide, slightly flared neck. A small decorative handle was attached to the side while the glass was still hot and malleable.
The matte surface and subtle rainbow-like reflections visible on the glass are known as iridescence. This effect developed over centuries as the object remained buried in the soil, where chemical reactions gradually altered the outer layers of the glass.
Small vessels of this type were often used to store perfumes, aromatic oils, or medicinal liquids. In the tenth century, glass objects were significantly more valuable than ceramic ones, and owning such a vessel indicated the wealth and status of its owner.