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Details

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.

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

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AUCTIONS:

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LOT 0769

Roman Glass Vial

Sold for (Inc. bp): £195

Print page

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    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.

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