**First Time At Auction**
Roman, Imperial Period, ca. 2nd to 3rd century CE. A fine double unguentarium formed from translucent glass of a soft sage green hue. The vessel presents with a pair of fused cylindrical receptacles, delicately applied trail handles joining rim to shoulder, and an arching bale handle above both vessel mouths. Both vessel bodies exhibit faint grooves that create a windswept presentation, and brilliant layers of rainbow-hued iridescence complement the spring hues. Size: 2.4" W x 6.1" H (6.1 cm x 15.5 cm); 7.1" H (18 cm) on included custom stand.
Wealthy women in ancient Roman times would employ these pieces to contain their precious unguents or oils. Another use was as a double kohl vessel containing the two colors of eye makeup. 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.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection, acquired 1990s
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Condition
Light encrustations within both bodies as well as on all handles, with a few small indentations to bodies formed during its creation, otherwise intact and very good. Great rainbow iridescence throughout.