A small, discoid flask made of ceramic or metal used by Christian pilgrims in the Middle Ages. Pilgrims who visited Jerusalem or other holy sites returned with ampullae (pl.) filled with oil or water that was believed to have apotropaic power.

Ceramic Ampulla Representing St. Thecla and St. Menas. 6th c. Musée du Louvre, Paris. Photo: Clio20.