Choose Category:

Print page | Email lot to a friend

Back to previous page


Use mousewheel to zoom in and out, click to enlarge
Gallery loading...

LOT 0769

Sold for (Inc. bp): £195

ROMAN GLASS VIAL
3RD CENTURY A.D.
5 1/2 in. (42 grams, 14 cm).

Wide domed body with flat base, tall narrow piriform neck and splayed rim.

PROVENANCE:
Ex London, UK, collection, 1980-1990s.

LITERATURE:
Cf. Filarska, B., Szkla Starozytne (Ancient Glass) II vol., Warszawa, 1972, II, cat.261, pl.XLVI,5, for similar vessel.

FOOTNOTES:
The lachrymatous (or lacrimal vase or unguentarium) was a vial of glass that contained ointments or perfumes. These small vessels, often found in Roman tombs, were formerly supposed to have been bottles into which mourners dropped their tears. Instead they contained perfume and unguents, and the large quantity of vessels found in tombs is due to the use of unguents at funeral ceremonies.

CONDITION
VETTING:
TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.