Moulded Glass Jug

This jug is a rare example of a very small group of early Islamic glass that carries an inscription or signature of the maker. In the early medieval period, it was highly unusual for artisans to sign their work, especially upon objects carrying blessings for their owner. Made of mould-blown turquoise glass, the jar has a drop form with a flat base and a narrow neck. The upper part of the spout is missing, but remains of an applied handle can still be identified on the shoulder. On its body, a two-line Kufic inscription appears between plain lines revealing the name of its maker. The inscription reads: “بركة لصاحبه. عمل محمد بن الأحزن (Blessing to the owner. The work of Muhammad ibn al-Ahzan)”. The rich turquoise colour and the clarity of the inscription on this jug makes it stand out from other early Islamic glassworks of this group.