Advanced Search 
Pilgrim flask
Egyptian
Byzantine Period
6th century A.D.
Medium/Technique
Pottery
Dimensions
Overall: 10.2 x 2.4 x 7 cm (4 x 15/16 x 2 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Egypt Exploration Fund by subscription
Accession Number86.776
ClassificationsVessels
DescriptionA mold-made pilgrim flask decorated with low reliefs. St. Menas, dressed in a soldier’s tunic, stands in the center with his arms extended in a gesture of prayer. He is surrounded by symbols representing both Christianity and events from his life. The kneeling camel to his left, for instance, references the site of his burial. After Menas’ martyrdom, the camels transporting his body stopped and kneeled, refusing to go any further. The composition is enclosed within a single pearled border.
ProvenanceFrom Tanis (San el-Hagar). 1884: excavated by William Flinders Petrie for the Egypt Exploration Fund; assigned to the Egypt Exploration Fund in the division of finds by the government of Egypt; October 28, 1885: presented to the MFA at EEF general meeting.
(Accession Date: January 1, 1886)
(Accession Date: January 1, 1886)