Monza ampullae
Type:
Pilgrim souvenirs,
Flasks
Date:
ca. 600
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Israel
Medium:
Lead
Dimensions:
Average diameter of 5 to 9 cm
Description:
Pope Gregory the Great (r. 590–604) corresponded with the Lombard queen Theodelinda (d. 625) in an attempt to convert the Lombards of Italy from Arianism to Catholicism. After Theodelinda, her husband Agilulf (r. 590–615), and their son became Catholics, Gregory presented gifts to the Lombard queen, including holy oil in ampullae. These precious objects subsequently enriched the treasuries of the Cathedral of Monza and Bobbio Abbey, both associated with Theodelinda's patronage.
Ampullae of the type preserved in large numbers in Monza are often called Monza ampullae even though they were originally produced in the Holy Land. These round flasks were cast in metal (often tin-lead alloys) and were designed to collect oil from pilgrimage sites. An ampulla was often fitted with loops that allowed it to be worn around the neck. Their low-relief imagery often depicts biblical scenes, buildings and shrines in Jerusalem, or a series of small images that represent loca sancta (holy sites) associated with the life of Christ.
Ampullae of the type preserved in large numbers in Monza are often called Monza ampullae even though they were originally produced in the Holy Land. These round flasks were cast in metal (often tin-lead alloys) and were designed to collect oil from pilgrimage sites. An ampulla was often fitted with loops that allowed it to be worn around the neck. Their low-relief imagery often depicts biblical scenes, buildings and shrines in Jerusalem, or a series of small images that represent loca sancta (holy sites) associated with the life of Christ.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
3
Image Credits:
Linda Safran
