Roman Glass Double Balsamarium with Applied Handles

Object Description

A beautiful Roman double balsamarium in light blue glass. The vessel has been formed as a pair of conjoined tubes, with slightly flared tops and thickened rims. Two long, curvy handles have been applied to the sides, starting near the base of the body and ending at the lip, though their use is more decorative than practical. There is a pontil mark at the base of the bottle. The surface of the glass is covered with fine vivid silvery iridescence. The vessel is mounted on a custom-made stand.

Dimensions of the vessel without the stand: H 10.6cm x W 5.5cm

Date: 3rd – 5th century AD

Object History

Ex Mayfair, London, UK, gallery, 1990s-2000s. From an important collection of glass, the property of a London gentleman.

Object Condition

Very fine, complete and intact, minor earthy deposits. There is a short hairline crack on the interior of one of the tubes, near the rim. Hairline crack near the second loop of one of the handles. Minor scratches to the surface. Supplied with a custom-made stand.

Object Details