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LOT 0769
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.
ProvenanceEx London, UK, collection, 1980-1990s.
LiteratureCf. Filarska, B., Szkla Starozytne (Ancient Glass) II vol., Warszawa, 1972, II, cat.261, pl.XLVI,5, for similar vessel.
FootnotesThe 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.
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