Spouted Jar (Feeder Vase) (work of art)

Created: Punic, 3rd century
Artist: Unknown Roman Artist
Dimensions: 8 1/2 x 6 1/2 inches (21.6 x 16.5 centimeters)
Medium: Ceramic, Unglazed terracotta; Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Henry B. Cooper in honor of Dr. Forrest William Clonts
Object Number: SC.78.28.1
Culture: Ancient Roman possibly from North Africa
Classification: Ceramics
Department: Ancient

About

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Spouted Jar | NCMA Explore by NCMA Explore | North Carolina Museum of Art on Sketchfab

Key Ideas

Spouted Jar (Feeder Vase) is an example of a ceramic vase that was used for pouring or “feeding” oil into ancient oil lamps.
Feeder vases like this one had a large area for holding oil and a spout for pouring. The spout made it easier to pour oil into the small openings in ancient oil lamps.
This ceramic jar is unglazed and simple in design. This suggests that it was used as an everyday item, or “coarse ware.”
Pottery jars were used as containers to hold olive oil, medicine, wine, food, and other substances.

Learn More

This spouted jar is made from unglazed terracotta. Terracotta was a common material used in creating ancient pottery. Ancient Roman pottery is classified into three main groups: amphora, coarse ware, and fine ware. An Amphora vessel is a two-handled pot with a neck that is narrower than the body. Amphora vessels were used for storing and transporting things like oil, olives, and wine. Coarse ware includes everyday pottery jars, dishes, and bowls used for cooking, storing, or transporting food and other goods. Fine ware includes serving vessels or tableware used for more formal dining. Fine ware is usually more decorative and elegant. Pottery was mass produced in ancient Rome and was mainly used in the home. Spouted Jar is classified as coarse ware because it is simple design and was used to store and pour oil.

Ancient Roman lamps used a wick made from a fibrous material like flax, linen, or papyrus. They also required inexpensive oil that could catch fire and burn easily. Fuel for oil lamps included olive oil, sesame oil (in the East), nut oil, fish oil, castor oil, grapeseed oil, and other oils made from plants. Olive oil was a primary source of fuel in the Mediterranean region.