Historical Context & Origin
Region: Roman Empire
Material: Free-blown pale green glass
Period: Circa 1st–3rd Century CE
Description
This ancient Roman glass flask is a striking example of early free-blown glass craftsmanship, featuring a flattened circular body with a long cylindrical neck and gently flared rim. Formed in translucent pale green glass, the vessel displays substantial iridescence, mineral encrustation, and weathering consistent with long-term burial and age.
The elegant flattened profile reflects a well-known Roman form used for storing oils, perfumes, medicinal liquids, or precious cosmetic substances. The vessel retains visible pontil evidence and characteristic asymmetry associated with authentic ancient free-blown production techniques.
Areas of encrustation and surface weathering contribute to the artifact’s archaeological appearance, while visible historic repairs to the shoulder and neck stabilize the piece for display. A small loss to the rim is present, consistent with its age and excavation history.
Mounted on a custom clear acrylic display stand, the flask presents exceptionally well as a display object and representative example of Roman glassmaking technology.
Features
- Authentic Roman free-blown glass vessel
- Flattened circular flask form
- Pale green translucent glass
- Visible pontil evidence
- Surface encrustation and burial weathering
- Custom display stand included
- Historic repair to shoulder and neck
- Elegant ancient Roman cosmetic or perfume flask form
Cultural Significance
Roman glass vessels became increasingly widespread throughout the Roman Empire following the invention of glassblowing in the 1st century BCE. Lightweight and visually refined, such flasks were commonly used for perfumes, oils, medicines, and luxury liquids, reflecting both practical daily use and the sophistication of Roman artisanal production.
Examples of flattened glass flasks such as this are particularly valued today for their sculptural qualities, archaeological preservation, and evidence of early glassworking techniques that revolutionized ancient manufacturing.
Condition
Ancient condition with expected age-related wear, burial encrustation, mineral deposits, and weathering throughout. Visible repair to the neck and shoulder area. Small loss to the rim. Stable and displayable condition overall.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 5.75 in
Age (Approximate)
1,700–2,000 years old
Provenance
Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, Thomaston, Maine, USA, August 24, 2013, Lot 487. Subsequently held in a private collection in Windsor, Connecticut, USA.
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