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All auctions / Ancient Art / Ancient Roman Glass Unguentarium – Perfume Bottle...


Beautiful ancient Roman glass Unguentarium, dating to approximately the 1st–3rd century AD. This elegant perfume or oil flask is made of delicate, translucent blue-green glass and features a slender, elongated neck, a gently widening teardrop-shaped body and a finely formed, outward-flaring rim. The vessel is a fine example of Roman free-blown glassmaking. Unguentaria of this type were used to store precious perfumes, scented oils, cosmetics and medicinal preparations. Particularly attractive is the beautiful natural iridescence that has developed on parts of the glass surface over the centuries. Subtle rainbow-like reflections in shades of violet, green and gold contrast with the original turquoise-blue glass. Areas of ancient surface weathering and mineral deposits further enhance its authentic archaeological appearance. A remarkable feature of this example is its excellent state of preservation. The vessel is completely intact, including the exceptionally delicate and thinly formed mouth and rim, which have survived without damage. Considering the fragility of ancient glass, the preservation of such a fine rim is particularly noteworthy. Object Details Culture: Ancient Roman Date: Approximately 1st–3rd century AD Material: Free-blown glass Type: Unguentarium / Perfume or Oil Flask Colour: Translucent blue-green / turquoise Height: 9.2 cm Maximum diameter: approx. 2.2 cm Origin: Roman Empire, exact region unknown Condition Excellent condition for its age. Completely intact, without cracks, chips, breaks or repairs. Even the exceptionally thin and delicate flared rim is perfectly preserved. Beautiful natural iridescence, ancient surface weathering and mineral deposits are present, consistent with the age of the object. This Unguentarium was acquired by the present owner in 2004 from a private collection in Munich, Germany, and has demonstrably remained in his possession since that time. The seller guarantees that this lot was legally acquired and that he is entitled to sell the object. Shipping: Insured DHL parcel shipping within the European Union. Shipping is only possible within the EU. Please take this into account before placing a bid.
Estimate:£229.21
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorAncient Art
Estimate:
£229.21
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