Roman Blue-Green Glass Ampulla

Discoid with raised, rounded rim; a 19th-century collection label bearing a handwritten inscription: ‘GAS, Miroir, Gallo Romain’ indicating the findspot; mounted on a custom-made display stand with serpentine column base. 239 grams, 13.8 cm (426 grams total, 20.1 cm including stand)



19th century collection label inscribed in ink ‘GAS, Miroir, Gallo-Romain’, indicating that the mirror was discovered at Gas, Eure-et-Loir, northern France. Private collection, UK.

The British Museum houses several notable ancient Roman silver hand mirrors, including:
1. Bursa Treasure Mirror – Part of the Bursa Treasure, a 1st-century AD Roman silver hoard discovered near Bursa, Turkey. This collection includes a large silver mirror, reflecting the luxurious personal items used by elite Roman women.
2. Chaourse Treasure Mirror – found in 1883 near Chaourse, France, this 2nd–3rd century AD hoard contains various silver objects, including a silvered bronze mirror, offering insights into the affluent lifestyles of Roman society.
These mirrors exemplify the exquisite craftsmanship and refined artistry of Roman silverwork, providing a glimpse into the daily grooming practices and material culture of the Roman elite.

Comprising mosaic and other types, annular and spherical profiles. 22 grams total, 14-16.5 mm



with Archaeologia, Switzerland, before 1983. Ex private North American collection. London private collection, 2016.

With polyhedral head bearing impressed lozenge ornament, hipped shank. 11.37 grams, 10.1 cm



From a private Tyneside collection, formed since the early 2000s.