Roman, ca. 1st century A.D.

Splashed glass

H: 12.6 cm

Serial: 16094

The body is composed of an exceptionally rich cobalt-blue matrix densely mottled with opaque white, pale blue, and golden-yellow inclusions. Rather than being painted or enameled onto the surface, these vibrant spots are integral to the glass itself, created by fusing together differently colored glass fragments while the vessel was formed. The result recalls polished marble, precious stone, or even a star-filled night sky, with every angle revealing a unique constellation of colors.

Roman splashed glass represented one of the highest achievements of ancient glassmaking. Produced in limited quantities during the early Imperial period, these vessels required remarkable technical control. Glassmakers first fused rods, chips, or slices of colored glass into a single blank before reheating and shaping the mass into its final form. Because the pattern emerged naturally from the arrangement of the individual colored elements, no two examples are ever identical.

Unguentaria of this type were used to contain costly perfumes, scented oils, cosmetics, or medicinal preparations. Their luxurious appearance reflected the value of their contents, making them prized possessions among Rome's affluent classes.

PROVENANCE

Private collection, acquired in the UK in 1993