PA-2869: (100 x 55 mm – 3 7/8 x 2 3/8 inches) A fine blown-glass “unguentarium” pleasingly formed, with a round pear-shaped body, slender neck and flared lip. The body is enhanced by pinched "ribs" around its circumference. The base is flattened so that it is free-standing. Glass of this shape was used to store ointments or cosmetic oils. Beautiful light blue-green glass and very fine surface patina with large areas of silver and blue iridescence – excellent condition.
Provenance: Ex New York Collection.
The survival of this fragile glass seems nearly miraculous. Occasionally examples where the glass has reacted to burial exhibit a shimmering iridescence that has long captivated the imagination of the most ardent collectors and artists. |