No. 99585381

Sold
Ancient Roman Glass Unguentarium
Final bid
€ 170
4 weeks ago

Ancient Roman Glass Unguentarium

An ancient Roman unguentarium, blown from translucent glass. The vessel features a globular body that flows into a long cylindrical neck with an everted rim. The vessel stands on a small flat base. There is a beautiful silver-purple iridescence on large sections of the flask. Earthy encrustations cover a significant portion of the vessel, consistent with the age of the item. Unguentaria were amongst the most common objects of Roman blown glass: produced in large numbers, they were items of everyday use for keeping expensive perfumes and cosmetic oils. The small body and mouth were ideal for slow, careful pouring, while glass was preferred for holding liquids, due to its non-porous, non-absorbent nature. Measurements: Circa H 13m x W 6.5cm Provenance: From the collection of a London gentleman, bought 1970s and by descent. N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**

No. 99585381

Sold
Ancient Roman Glass Unguentarium

Ancient Roman Glass Unguentarium

An ancient Roman unguentarium, blown from translucent glass. The vessel features a globular body that flows into a long cylindrical neck with an everted rim. The vessel stands on a small flat base. There is a beautiful silver-purple iridescence on large sections of the flask. Earthy encrustations cover a significant portion of the vessel, consistent with the age of the item.

Unguentaria were amongst the most common objects of Roman blown glass: produced in large numbers, they were items of everyday use for keeping expensive perfumes and cosmetic oils. The small body and mouth were ideal for slow, careful pouring, while glass was preferred for holding liquids, due to its non-porous, non-absorbent nature.

Measurements: Circa H 13m x W 6.5cm

Provenance: From the collection of a London gentleman, bought 1970s and by descent.

N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**

Final bid
€ 170
Peter Reynaers
Expert
Estimate  € 180 - € 220

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