Ancient Roman Iridescent Glass Unguentarium

The body of the balsamarium is teardrop- or pear-shaped, with a flared base to maximise the volume of its contents. The elongated cylindrical neck facilitates controlled, drop-by-drop pouring. It ends in a flat, flared rim, designed to be sealed with a wax, cork or cloth stopper. Manufactured using the air-blown glass technique, a Roman technological revolution that enabled the mass production of these lightweight yet durable vessels. These bottles were essential in everyday Roman life for holding perfumes, cosmetics and medicinal oils. It is very common to find them as grave goods in tombs, as they were placed alongside the deceased containing aromatic essences for the burial ritual. Provenance: Auction House, Paris, Néret-Minet and Coutau-Bégarie, 10 December 1986; Acquired at the R. E. B. auction house, France, 2026 Statement seen by Catawiki. The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. The seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days. For buyers outside the European Union (EU) a Spanish export license is required. This will take several weeks to arrange. Due to Switzerland customs regulations, this lot cannot be sold to customers residing in Switzerland

Estimate:£376.91

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