Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 3rd to 4th century CE. A free-blown pouring jug, free-blown from translucent, aquamarine-hued glass, with a piriform body and a sage-green trail handle. Vessels like this were used for holding perfumes and scented oils in toilettes and were highly prized by wealthy Roman women. The elegant silhouette of this vessel is only complemented by areas of soft, rainbow-hued iridescence. Size: 3.2" L x 2.5" W x 5.625" H (8.1 cm x 6.4 cm x 14.3 cm); 6" H (15.2 cm) on included custom stand.
Most scholars agree, Roman glass was of the highest quality - both aesthetically and technically - among the ancients. While glass making had been practiced for centuries, glass blowing was invented in the Roman-controlled Holy Land in the 1st century BCE. This innovative technology revolutionized the artform. We can appreciate such a wide variety of forms and shapes, because the medium of glass has unique physical properties that make for so many more possibilities which would eventually replace a wide variety of pottery and metal wares in the ancient world. Roman glassmakers reached incredible artistic heights with both free-blown vessels and mold blown forms and decorations and were traded far beyond the Roman Empire. Roman glass vessels have been found in Scandinavia, India, and in Han Dynasty tombs in China.
Provenance: ex-Denenberg Fine Arts, Los Angeles, California USA; ex-Christie's, New York "Antiquities" auction (sale 21709, January 26, 2023, lot 137); ex-private collection, acquired via descent; ex-Jack (1930-1996) and Jane (1936-2021) Weprin collection, New York, USA, acquired by 1991
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#178970
Condition
Professionally repaired with light adhesive residue along break lines; ring foot likely attached in later times for stability. Small chips to rim and body, with micro-bubbling within glass matrix, otherwise in great condition. Beautiful glass color throughout.