Loading, please wait...
LOT 0731
Roman Iridescent Green Glass Ampulla
1ST-3RD CENTURY A.D.
4 1/2 in. (23 grams, 11.6 cm high).
Featuring a bottle of a wide form, free blown from translucent glass of a soft turquoise hue, defined by a slightly concave base, a piriform body with a tapered shoulder, a lightly corseted neckline beneath a cylindrical neck, and a splayed rim with an in-folded lip.
ProvenanceAcquired 1980-2015.
Ex Abelita family collection.
Cf. Filarska, B., Szkla Starozytne (Ancient Glass) II vol., Warszawa, 1972, II, cat.84, pl.XVIII,1, for similar vessel.
FootnotesThe ampulla was a small round vessel, usually made of glass and used for sacred purposes. The word is used in archaeology, also for flasks that are often handle-less and much flatter. Materials include glass, ceramics and metal. The unguentarium was a term for a bottle believed to have been used to store perfume.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a 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.
-
Roman Carnelian Elephant Chariot Gemstone
Circa 1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £878
With elephant chariot and winged Victory in a field of vegetation; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 1.06 grams, 17 mm
From the collection of a Swiss gentleman formed in Europe from 1970-1980s; thence by descent from the family in London. -
Roman Fresco Painted Wall Plaster Collection
1st century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £130
Comprising five pieces in cream, orange, blue and red with painted architectural lines; one with floral decoration and one with a shaded 'grid' making it look three-dimensional. 622 grams total, 73 - 98 mm
Acquired in the 19th century. Ex Jeger collection, Switzerland. -
Roman Bronze Ring with VICTOR
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £364
Rectangular plaque with rounded edges, incised legend 'VIC / TOR' with frond between and at each end. 5.20 grams, 21.89 mm overall, 18.42 mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q, USA 8, Europe 17.49, Japan 16)
Acquired on the UK art market before 2000. Property of a Surrey, UK, collector.