Dish ca. 3rd-7th century A.D. Sasanian This small glass vessel is mostly preserved, with shallow, slightly sloping sides and a preserved pontil mark on its bottom. A pontil mark is left behind from the place where a rod would have been attached to the hot glass. Having this type of mark indicates that the glass was blown freehand and not in a mold (which does not use the rod). Originally a clear glass, this piece is covered with an opaque greenish yellow oxidation. Glass found in excavations has often gone through a process of decay that changes its surface color. Glass was widely produced and used during the Sasanian period. Although colorless glass was highly valued, the majority of glass finds are slightly tinted, usually greenish or yellow tint, although reddish and brown tints also occur. Glass finds from this period include a variety of types such as small cosmetic containers, serving vessels, and drinking glasses. This piece was excavated from a house at the site of Maaridh II