Rome, ca. 1st to 3rd Century CE. An exquisite, free-blown translucent blue-green unguentarium with a classic bell-shaped body, tall slender neck, and out-folded rim. As large and impressive as this unguent is, this piece most likely came from the boudoir of a wealthy lady of the ancient Roman Empire, and was used to hold precious oils, perfumes, or cosmetics. This example boasts the classic silhouette of this form and would complement any glass collection. Size: 2.875" W x 4.125" H (7.3 cm x 10.5 cm)

Most scholars agree, Roman glass was of the highest quality -both aesthetically and technically - among the ancients. While glass making had been practiced for centuries, the Romans invented glass blowing in the 1st century BCE which revolutionized the artform. We can appreciate such a wide variety of forms and shapes, because the medium of glass has unique physical properties that make for so many more possibilities than metal or clay. Roman glassmakers reached incredible artistic heights with both free-blown vessels and mould blown forms and decorations.

For similar examples see Susan Auth, Ancient Glass at the Newark Museum, New Jersey, 1976; S. B. Matheson, Ancient Glass in the Yale University Art Gallery, Yale, 1980.



Provenance: Ex New York Collection

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#119368

Scattered encrustation, intract, excellent condition.