Small Roman Candlestick Glass Unguentarium

Object Description

An elegant ancient Roman candlestick style unguentarium blown from a delicate pale blue glass. The body is formed from two globular segments, one larger and one smaller, which extend into a neat cylindrical neck, topped by a flared, outward folded rim. The base is slightly flattened. The exterior of the vessel showcases a delicate coating of iridescent, silvery lustre with some areas of darker, textured ageing around the base and inner rim. The glass itself is translucent and showcases a very slight rainbow iridescence in some areas.
The lovely light blue ‘aqua’ colouring is characteristic of natural untreated glass and is commonplace amongst early Roman examples. It is a result of iron (II) oxide present within the composition.

Date: Circa 1st-2nd century AD

Object History

From the important collection of a professional by descent, bought London and Europe 1970-90’s

Object Condition

Very fine condition. One hairline crack from the mouth to half-way down the neck, iridescence and earthly encrustations are present over the exterior.

Object Details