Early Medieval Ampulla

Handcrafted Replica Early Byzantine Pilgrim Flask – 5th-6th Century AD

Details

Pilgrim bottles have been used for centuries by devout travellers to carry home water, oil, or soil from the holy sanctuaries they visited. This practice allowed pilgrims to preserve a sacred connection to their journey, bringing home a personal religious relic for comfort and devotion.

This replica pilgrim flask is inspired by an example from the British Museum collection, dating to the 5th-6th century AD. The flask is decorated on one side with a beardless figure, believed to represent either St George or St Theodore. The figure is depicted wearing a short tunic, holding a lance in his left hand, and standing upon the back of a dragon or serpent.

Materials

Terracotta, reduction fired

Dimensions

• Approx. 85 mm x 45 mm

Production

This museum-quality replica has been entirely handmade in Northumberland by Potted History, inspired by original artefacts.

• Handcrafted using traditional techniques
• Reduction fired to replicate the original firing process
• Each piece is unique, with natural variations in surface colour and texture

Ordering Information

• 'Add to Basket' Items: Ready to ship immediately.
• 'Pre-order' Items: Handmade to order within 90 days (longer for international orders). If your order includes both 'Add to Basket' and 'Pre-order' items, they will be shipped together once all items are ready.

Shipping

• Standard shipping: Sent via second-class postal service.
• Faster delivery: If you require first-class shipping, please contact us for a custom quote.

Carry home a piece of history – order your Byzantine pilgrim flask today!