Egypt, Romano-Egyptian period, ca. 30 BCE to 2nd century CE. A marvelous and remarkably rare rock-crystal jar boasting a minimalist apple-form body and silver-lined rim. Note how the inner matrix of the rock dazzles when the vessel is held to the sunlight! Rock crystal is a pure form of the silica mineral quartz, prized for its transparency and flawless structure. Used as a gemstone and in ornamental carvings, large crystals - such as the one used here - are difficult to come by. Egyptian rock crystal was likely sourced in the areas of the Fayum and Bahariya in the Western desert as well as the Sinai. Vessels like this example are exceptionally rare, perhaps due to the hardness of the stone making it more difficult to manipulate, though such qualities would typically dictate the purpose of the vessel rather than the choice of the material. This vessel may have served as an offering dish or cosmetic container. Size: 2.7" Diameter x 1.8" H (6.9 cm x 4.6 cm); silver quality: 96.5%

According to Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder, Romans favored rock crystal for not only its sparkling brilliance, but also for its cooling properties. Pliny described rock crystal as having come from snow, and it seems that the Romans believed it was a form of petrified water. Silver was also extremely valuable in antiquity and was more coveted than gold for much of Egypt's history.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#175349

A few barely noticeable nicks to surface and minor scuffs to silver, as expected with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice preservation of detail and weathering film near rim and on interior. Light patina to silver. `