Vial

Physical Object


1986.008.0700
Nuestra Señora de Atocha (1622)
circa 1620
This small glass vial from the galleon Atocha was likely used to carry precious liquids. It resembles an unusual type of vial called a largrimario, designed for the collection of wept tears (lagrima = tear) to demonstrate the owner’s passion. The mouth and rim, which would help to better determine the function, are missing from this piece.