Ampulla (Flask) of Saint Menas

Ampulla (Flask) of Saint Menas

Ampulla (Flask) of Saint Menas, Egypt, late 6th century–mid 8th century, earthenware, H. 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm)
W. 3 in. (7.6 cm), Metropolitan Museum of Art

Ampullae like this one were used by pilgrims to bring home water or oil from the great pilgrimage site for Saint Menas, said to be a late-third-century Egyptian Roman soldier who was martyred for his Christian faith. He is shown between the two camels who returned his body to Egypt for burial.