Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Two Roman semi-translucent glass gaming counters in attractive colouring. -> Roman glass gaming counters were small, often brightly coloured discs used in a variety of board games popular throughout the Roman world. They served as movable pieces, similar to modern tokens, and were used in games of strategy and chance such as 'ludus latrunculorum' and tabula. These counters were commonly found in domestic contexts and reflect the widespread popularity of leisure activities in Roman daily life. -> The counters will be delivered in a special presentation window. The case makes it easy to put on display or to store safely. The case can be opened and reused (simple push-to-open). Size display: ± 7 x 7 cm Condition: good and solid condition. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity (PDF) is available upon request for all lots with a hammer price of €100 or higher. Historical background: Glass has existed in natural forms since prehistoric times; however, humans first began producing glass around 4,000 years ago in Mesopotamia, when craftsmen discovered how to combine sand, soda and lime. For centuries, glass remained a luxury material reserved for the upper classes. Across the Mediterranean world, glassmakers developed techniques such as casting, core-forming and mosaic glass, while experimenting with colours using metallic oxides including cobalt and copper. The Romans adopted glassmaking following the conquest of Egypt in the 1st century BC. During the 1st century AD, the invention of glassblowing revolutionised production, allowing for larger-scale manufacturing. By adding manganese dioxide, Roman glassmakers were able to produce colourless or ‘aqua’ glass. Roman glass became highly popular and was widely used for beads, vessels, mosaic tiles and window panes. It was traded throughout the Roman Empire and beyond, reaching regions such as Central Africa, Scandinavia and, via the Silk Road, as far as China.