Description:

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 3rd to 4th century CE. A lovely double unguentarium, sometimes called a double balsamarium, formed from a vibrant yellow glass with a flat base, two conjoined tubular vessels with wide rims around each, and a pair of applied green-glass trail handles. Thick earthen deposits cover the unguentarium, and fiery rainbow iridescence adds a burst of color. Wealthy women in ancient Roman times would employ these pieces to contain their precious unguents or oils. Another use was as a double kohl vessel containing two different colors of eye makeup. This vessel appears to contain faint remains of such contents. Vessels like this have also been found in tombs and were used to contain scented oils or precious cosmetics for the deceased to carry into the next world. Size: 2.2" W x 4.1" H (5.6 cm x 10.4 cm).

Provenance: ex-Davis collection, Houston, Texas, acquired before 2013 from various auction houses in London and New York

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#139034

  • Condition: Minor nicks to base, handles, and rim, light micro-bubbling within glass matrix, and some minor abrasions, otherwise intact and very good. Nice earthen deposits and fabulous rainbow iridescence throughout.

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August 27, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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