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Details
LOT 0774
Roman Glass Candlestick Unguentarium
2ND-3RD CENTURY A.D.
5 3/8 in. (37.2 grams, 13.6 cm).
With low conical body and slightly convex wall, dimple base; tall cylindrical neck flaring to mouth with inward-folded rim; slightly iridescent surface.
Provenance
Ex P. Martens, The Netherlands, formed between 1974-1984.
Accompanied by a copy of an Art Loss Register certificate no.S00075481.
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LOT 0774
Roman Glass Candlestick Unguentarium
Estimate £250 - 350€290 - 410 (for guidance only)$340 - 470 (for guidance only)
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The term ichthys is the equivalent of the ancient Greek: ixθus, ichthýs ('fish'), used by early Christians to refer to Jesus Christ. For this reason, the fish symbol was very common in the catacombs of Rome. In particular, the ichthys is one of the oldest Christian symbols that has come down to us. Used covertly by Christians to mask their faith from Roman persecutors, when a Christian encountered a stranger whose loyalty he needed to know, he would draw one of the arches that make up the ichthys in the sand. If the stranger completed the sign, the two individuals recognised each other as followers of Christ. The symbol was also drawn on the doors of the houses of Christian families. Its use spread in the 3rd century to personal effects such as the ring offered here.
