Roman Glass Double Unguentarium / Balsamarium

Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A spectacular Roman double unguentarium, sometimes called a balsamarium, comprised of seafoam green glass with four undulating ribbon-like trails adorning the sides of the unguentaria, and threadlike trails wrapping around each unguentarium, altogether making for a most wonderful effect. Wealthy women in ancient Roman times would employ a vessel such as this to contain their precious unguents or oils. Another use was as a double kohl vessel containing two different hues of eye makeup. Furthermore, vessels like this have also been found in tombs and were used to contain scented oils or precious cosmetics for the deceased to carry into the next world. Size: 2" W x 5" H (5.1 cm x 12.7 cm); 5.25" H (13.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex Estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan USA acquired before 2000

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#158094
Condition Report: Missing handle with losses to rims of vessels where the handle was once attached. A few small pressure fissures to upper end of vessel. Loss to base of vessel, perhaps a smoothed pontil scar. Loss to some threadlike trailing, though much remains. Areas of surface covered with weathering film. Other areas with earthen deposits. Still others with stunning rainbow iridescence.