Description:

Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 4th century CE. A stunning glass carchesium or beaker boasting a rare form and considerable scale with 3 loop handles sitting equidistant, just below the neck. Free-blown from translucent, light green glass, the vessel presents an elegant silhouette with a wide hip and sloped walls that curve inward to a corseted neck and a flared rim, all sitting upon a rounded base. The aqua-hued handles present vertical ribs, creating a nice contrast against the smooth body of the beaker. Shimmering areas of violet and rainbow iridescence imbue the piece with an aura of opulence, reminiscent of Imperial Rome! Size: 5.75" W x 5.75" H (14.6 cm x 14.6 cm); 6.5" H (16.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Carchesia were used for wine in ancient Greece and Rome, as well as milk. They sometimes bore narrow handles, as seen in this example. Carchesia were notably used in ritual libation, with Vergil having Aeneas pour out 2 of pure wine, 2 of fresh milk, and 2 of sacred blood over the tomb of his father Anchises. It was also used for pouring out offerings of honey.[1] In late Antiquity, Sidonius associated the vessel with the Chaldeans of Babylonia.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#179470

  • Condition: Professional repair and restoration to base. Light surface wear as shown, but otherwise, excellent presentation with rich weathering film and beautiful iridescence to surface.

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July 7, 2023 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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