ANCIENT ALABASTER OINTMENT VESSEL
SECOND TEMPLE PERIOD
HOLY LAND, 1ST CENTURY BCE - 1ST CENTURY CE


The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,
Because the Lord has anointed me
To bring good news to the afflicted;
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to captives
And freedom to prisoners;
- Isaiah 61:1

This ancient alabaster vessel from the time of the Second Temple in Jerusalem is beautifully decorated with delicate geometric circular designs and grooved for texture. Anointing with oil and perfumed ointments was an important practice often referenced in the Bible related to kings, priests and healing.

2 x 1.2in; In Good Condition

A woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table. When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. "Why this waste?" they asked. "This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor." Aware of this, Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.
- Matthew 26:6-13