![Probably Syrian - Animal Flask [late 7th-8th century] by Gandalf's Gallery](http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3787/9142437595_53ffc72708.jpg)
During Roman and early Islamic times, animal‑shaped vessels were made using an intricate decorated double or quadruple glass tube. Decorated with trailed glass threads, the tubes are carried on the backs of domestic animals and the trailed threads appear to imitate protective cages. Such vessels were probably used as containers for kohl or perfume.
[Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York - Glass, yellowish and pinkish; blown, applied decoration, 8.6 cm high]