The Romans frequently utilised the functional and decorative capabilities of glass to produce a wide array of objects. Unguentarium, such as this example, were used as containers for ointments, powders, balms, and other expensive liquids such as perfumes: the small mouth of the bottle is ideal for slow, careful pouring, while glass was preferred for holding liquids, due to its non-porous, non-absorbent nature.
This cotton reel style is typical of Romano Egyptian examples during the 1st -2nd century. Its thick walls and flared body created a durable container and relatively low capacity made it well suited to carrying highly valuable liquids
Roman ‘Cotton Reel’ Style Unguentarium
£ 450.00
A stunning ancient Roman ‘cotton reel’ style unguentarium, formed of pale blue blown glass. The vessel has a wide folded-in rim, extended cylindrical neck, and a very wide flared-out body flowing into a concave base. The walls are consistent and slightly thick throughout.
The vessel showcases areas of iridescent silvery lustre over the exterior and interiors, and round the edges of these patches a beautiful rainbow patina has formed. There are some areas of darker textured deterioration especially on the base. The vessel is almost wholly intact aside from a slight crack at the very centre of the base and a raw circular edge due to a bubble on the corner of the base. The glass is wonderfully translucent.
The lovely light blue ‘aqua’ colouring is characteristic of natural untreated glass and is commonplace amongst early Roman examples. It is a result of iron (II) oxide present within the composition.
Provenance: From the important collection of a professional by descent, bought London and Europe 1970-90's
Condition: Very fine condition, one circular crack on the edge of the base
SOLD
| Weight | 90.3 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | W 8.30 x H 9.90 cm |
| Glass | Blown Glass |
| Region | North Africa |
Reference: For Similar: The Princeton University Art Museum, NJ, USA, item y731
