古罗马 玻璃 Unguentarium

An ancient Roman unguentarium blown from pale blue glass, most likely used as a perfume bottle. The vessel features a piriform-shaped body, with a constriction at the base of the long cylindrical neck and an everted rim. It sits upon a slightly concave base. The piece is covered with beautiful silver lustre and polychrome iridescence along with earthly encrustations.

Unguentaria were amongst the most common objects of Roman blown glass: produced in large numbers, they were items of everyday use for keeping expensive unguents and cosmetic oils. By the 1st century AD, the technique of glass-blowing had revolutionised the art of glass-making, allowing for the production of small medicine, incense, and perfume containers in new forms. The small body and mouth allowed the user carefully to pour and control the amount of liquid dispensed, and glass was the material of choice for storing the oils because it was not porous.

Measurements: Circa H 10.7cm x W 1.9cm

Provenance: Ex London Art Market, acquired 1980s-90s.

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