Roman Pale Blue Glass Candlestick Unguentarium

With a ribbed hoop, rectangular bezel with central cell and beaded wire collar, inset with later garnet cloison. 15.33 grams, 27.34 mm overall, 20.41 x 16.53 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N 1/2, USA 6 3/4, Europe 14.35, Japan 13)



From the collection of a European gentleman living in South London; acquired 1970-1980. Private collection, Suffolk, UK.

Stepped plano-convex hoop with large disc plaque, iridescent surface. 23.6 grams, 65 mm



From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent. Accompanied by an original C.J. Martin sales invoice dated 3rd October 1990.

Fragments of wall plaster with rendered surface painted with mainly Pompeii red, pale blue and white detailing; some with impression of timber laths to the reverse. 499 grams total, 69-85 mm



Acquired in the 19th century. Ex Jeger collection, Switzerland. UK gallery, early 2000s.

These small fragments, for analogies with the fragments of Pompeii, seem to belong to the second style of Roman painting, red panels representing highlight and shadow, decorated with vegetal interlaces. Some panels were probably framed by a red grenade fillet. A fragment shows alternate blue and red colour over a cream background, maybe pertinent to a socle.