Ancient Roman Iridescent Glass Lachrymatory (Tear Vial) - 14.5 mm (No Reserve Price)

Ancient Roman Iridescent Glass Lachrymatory (Tear Vial), 1st–4th Century AD - Top Condition

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This exquisite ancient Roman glass lachrymatory, often romantically known as a "tear vial," dates to the 1st–4th century AD and features a compact, bulbous form with a wide mouth opening for easy access. Crafted from translucent blue-green glass, it exhibits a striking iridescent sheen—professionally termed "iridescence" or "weathering patina"—that produces rainbow-like colors under light, resulting from the natural delamination and oxidation of the glass surface over centuries of burial.

Symbolism & Historical Significance:
Lachrymatory Vial: These small vessels were primarily used in Roman daily life to hold perfumes, oils, unguents, or medicinal essences, rather than tears as later Victorian myths suggested. The iridescence, caused by the breakdown of silica layers in the glass due to environmental exposure (such as moisture and soil chemicals), creates a prismatic effect that enhances the object's ethereal beauty.

In Roman culture, such vials symbolized personal care, beauty rituals, and sometimes mourning or funerary practices, where they were placed in tombs as grave goods to accompany the deceased into the afterlife.
The shimmering surface, while a product of aging, mirrors the advanced Roman glassmaking techniques, including blowing and molding, which allowed for mass production of delicate items across the empire.

Connection to Ancient Rome:
Produced during the height of the Roman Empire, these lachrymatories were common in households, baths, and burial contexts from Britain to the Near East. The iridescent effect, unique to ancient glass, was not intentional but became a hallmark of authenticity, with similar examples excavated from sites like Pompeii and Roman cemeteries in the Levant, reflecting the widespread trade and innovation in glass technology influenced by earlier Hellenistic traditions.

Condition:
Intact with a beautiful iridescent patina covering the surface, and no cracks or repairs; the glass retains its structural integrity, making it a well-preserved example of Roman artistry.

Dimensions:
Outer Diameter: 26.5 mm
Height: 14.5 mm
Weight: 7.58 g

Provenance:
Previously part of a private European collection, established in the 1980s. A provenance document and declaration of legal origin are available in PDF format upon request.

Note: Please examine the provided images for a detailed impression of the vial. The photos are highly magnified to showcase the iridescent details the best way possible; otherwise, the piece is even more beautiful and attractive in person.

In top condition making it relevant for both collectors and special Christmas gift seekers