10th C. Byzantine Lead Ampulla (Pilgrim Votive)

**First Time At Auction**

Ancient Near East, Holy Land, Byzantine Empire, ca. 900 to 1200 CE. A mold-cast lead votive ampulla with netted linear decorations coursing across the tapered triangular body. The neck is slightly corseted and features a pair of protruding handles, and the rim projects upwards with a slight curve. Votive ampullae like this example were perhaps carried by traveling pilgrims as a sign of their Christian faith or were perhaps buried with them upon death. Size: 1.2" W x 2.125" H (3 cm x 5.4 cm)

Provenance: ex-estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, acquired before 2000

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#158080
Condition Report: Minor abrasions and nicks to body, handles, and rim, otherwise intact and very good. Smooth surface textures throughout.