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Ancient Roman Glass Perfume Dropper (Unguentarium) – Time of Jesus | 1st–2nd Century AD
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Description
Description
A beautiful ancient Roman glass perfume dropper, dating to approximately the 1st–2nd century AD, during the early Roman Imperial period and the era of Jesus Christ.
This elegant vessel features a rounded, bulbous body, a narrow neck, and a beautifully folded, flared rim. Its surface displays remarkable natural patina, with soft greenish tones, earthy mineral deposits, and delicate areas of iridescence developed over centuries of burial.
When viewed from above, the vessel reveals a narrow opening leading into its rounded body, a design commonly associated with ancient containers used to store precious perfumes, aromatic oils, and cosmetic preparations. The narrow neck would have helped control the pouring of these valuable liquids.
Its graceful proportions, beautiful ancient patina, and remarkable preservation make it a fascinating example of Roman glassmaking from the time of Jesus.
Dimensions: Approximately 8.5 cm (3.35 inches) in height.
Period and Time
Period and Time
Early Roman Imperial Period (1st–2nd Century AD)
During the first and second centuries AD, glassmaking flourished throughout the Roman Empire, particularly in the eastern Mediterranean, including the regions of modern-day Israel, Syria, and Lebanon. Glass vessels became increasingly accessible and were widely used for perfumes, cosmetics, medicines, and household goods. Their popularity reflected the growing sophistication of Roman craftsmanship and everyday luxury.
Material
Material
Ancient Blown Glass
The introduction and widespread adoption of glassblowing during the late 1st century BC revolutionized glass production. Roman artisans heated raw glass in furnaces until molten, gathered it onto the end of a hollow blowpipe, and carefully inflated it by blowing air through the tube. The softened glass could then be shaped using tools, while additional molten glass was applied to create decorative elements such as the vessel's feet and thickened rim.
The vessel's aged surface exhibits natural mineral deposits and weathering characteristic of ancient glass.