Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 1st to 4th century CE. A fine cylindrical container with a flared base and a narrow shoulder that supports a rounded, circular lid, both hand-carved from fragments of hollowed out cattle bone. The interior of the pyxis is rather deep and intended to hold several trinkets like rings, earrings, or other finery. The flat-bottomed lid features a faintly incised flower on the topside, and a drilled central hole contains a slender bronze wire applicator with mottled green and brown patina. Size (w/ lid): 1.25" W x 1.8" H (3.2 cm x 4.6 cm); (applicator): 3.125" L (7.9 cm).

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired in the early 2000s; ex-Tom Cederlind collection, Portland, Oregon, USA

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#154796

Lid and applicator are from the stated period but are likely not original to the vessel body. Body and lid have minor nicks and abrasions, with softening to incised details, and minor yellowing commensurate with age, otherwise intact and very good. Bronze applicator has minor encrustations but is intact with great patina.