Alabastron

As Alabastron (plural alabastra ) is referred to in archeology an antique pear-shaped or slender vessel in the form of a vial without stand and handle with a curved base.

Alabastra were used for storage of perfumes and aromatic liquids. They were mainly used by women; Men used as the ampulla aryballos.

As a model for the shape of the vial vessels from the Orient and from Egypt, where they were used often made ​​of alabaster served.

Alabastra example, were found in the necropolis of Knossos and Phaistos in Crete; they date from the period around 1900 to 1300 BC and are in the palace style with birds, fish and octopus decorated representations.

In the Orthodox churches is still the existing glass or metal vessel containing the Myron, called Alabastron.