Glass Inkwell

Blown glass inkwells of globular shape were produced in Iran for several centuries and have been excavated in numbers, some along the Gulf coast, nearby the port city of Siraf, thus suggesting a local production and circulation for these objects. This small inkwell made of clear glass presents a smooth surface, now oxidised due to prolongued contact with the soil, and was probably carried around by its owner suspended from the wrist or attached to a belt via the four loops applied on its top part. If cut, its section would show the opening being a tube that allows the insertion of a reed pen, but it is still narrow enough to prevent any spilling of ink. Glass inkwells of this shape (either globular or cylindrical) can be dated from the 2nd to the 7th century AH / 9th to 13th century CE, indicating the continuity and success of certain glass manufacturing techniques in Iran and Central Asia across the centuries.