Britannica Sources used in this answer

How did ancient Egyptian artisans decorate glass vessels with feather and zigzag patterns?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

fish of core-made glass — glassware Fish of core-made glass with “combed” decoration, Egyptian, New Kingdom, 18th dynasty (c. 1363–46 bc). In the British Museum. 0.141 m × .069 m.

Ancient Egyptian artisans created feather and zigzag patterns on glass vessels using a core-forming technique that reached a high level of excellence during the 18th dynasty (c. 1490 BCE onwards).1

The process involved the following steps:

Core Preparation: Artisans first formed the shape of the vessel using clay (likely mixed with dung) fixed to a metal rod.1
Building the Body: The body of the vessel was built up over this core, typically using opaque blue glass.1
Applying Threads: While the glass was still workable, threads of glass in contrasting colors—such as yellow, white, or green—were coiled around the vessel.1
Creating Patterns: To achieve the characteristic feather, zigzag, or arcade designs, artisans used a comb-like instrument to pull these threads alternately up and down.1
Finishing: The decorative threads were then rolled into the surface of the vessel (a process known as marvering) until they were flush with the body. Finally, the vessel could be finished with handles or other elements.1

These vessels were primarily small, intended for holding precious liquids like unguents.12