Lot 21
**Originally Listed At $300**
Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A pair of Roman glass vessels, each formed with the confident simplicity that defines early Imperial glassmaking. The first is a slender unguentarium blown in a pale yellow-green glass, its long neck rising to a flared, rounded rim. The body tapers gracefully before finishing in a rounded base, a shape commonly used for oils, perfumes, and cosmetic preparations. Iridescence from long burial now spreads across the surface, creating patches of silver, pearl, and soft gold that highlight the vessel's age. The second piece is a shallow dish or small bowl blown in a light green glass, distinguished by a pronounced central kick and gently curved walls. Vessels of this type likely held ointments, powders, or other cosmetic materials, and their wide, open form made them practical for daily use. Size of larger: 1.1" Diameter x 4" H (2.8 cm x 10.2 cm)
This example shows areas of encrustation and attractive rainbow weathering typical of excavated Roman glass, evidence of chemical reactions between the silica surface and centuries of burial conditions.
Together, the vessels represent two essential forms in the Roman cosmetic and toiletry tradition, where glass replaced earlier ceramic containers thanks to its durability, translucence, and ease of shaping. Both pieces retain their structural integrity, and the natural iridescence adds visual interest prized by collectors of ancient glass. They offer a clear view of the Roman preference for functional, elegant forms designed for everyday domestic life.
Provenance: private Dallas, Texas, USA collection
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#199063
- Condition: A few chips to dish as shown, but otherwise, both are intact and excellent with scattered areas of weathering film and beautiful iridescence.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |