A Biblical "Beehive" Alabaster Jar and Lid, Hellenistic - early Roman Period, ca. 3rd century BCE - 1st century CE

This compact calcite-alabaster vessel is a classic example of the “beehive” unguent jars manufactured in southern Arabia during the height of the incense trade. Finely turned from banded alabaster, the vessel narrows gently from its wide base before tapering toward a small, straight neck fitted with a domed lid. Pierced lugs project at mid-body and again from the lid, allowing the vessel to be tied closed for secure transport and storage.

The form and fine material identify the vessel as a container for precious aromatics, perfumed oils, semi-solid ointments, or gum resins such as frankincense, myrrh, or the so-called Balm of Gilead, commodities closely associated with South Arabian trade during the Hellenistic period.  Highly valued across the ancient world for ritual, medicinal, and funerary purposes, these resins were exported northward via caravan routes to the Levant and Mediterranean, reinforcing their association with wealth, status, and sanctity.

Jars of this type offer a rare, tangible connection to the broader cultural economy behind the biblical incense trade.  In the Gospel of Matthew, it is mentioned that three wise men brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the infant Jesus (Matthew 2:11). Frankincense and myrrh were major exports of southern Arabia and were typically stored and transported in beehive-shaped vessels. Although we cannot directly connect this specific example to the Nativity story, jars like this one would have been used to hold these precious gifts. This connection links the object both materially and culturally to the broader tradition surrounding the Nativity narrative. 

Medium: Calcite Alabaster

Dimensions: Height: 4 inches (10 cm)

Condition: Encrusted base and deposits on the interior of the jar. Some very minor ancient rim and lid edge roughness that does not detract, otherwise intact and in very good condition overall.

Provenance: Private NYC collection, acquired from the NYC trade 1980-1990s.

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