Skip to product information
1 of 14

A Roman Green Glass Balsamarium c. 4th Century A.D.

SKU: GLASS02

Regular price £1,950.00
Regular price Sale price £1,950.00
Shipping/delivery quotes available at request.

UK Mainland Delivery

We offer secure doorstep delivery using our trusted fine art and antique couriers, ensuring your item arrives safely and with care.

At checkout, please select ‘Pick up’ (not ‘Ship’) to complete your purchase.
You can either:
• Proceed with payment and we’ll send a separate link for delivery, or
Contact us first for a quote, and we’ll send you a custom order link with delivery included.

Placing items in specific locations can be arranged on request — additional costs will apply.

Contact us for a quote

International shipping

International delivery, crating, shipping, and insurance can be arranged on request. We’ll provide a quote based on your needs—additional costs will apply and are payable directly to the shipping company.

You’re welcome to use your own shipping agent, or proceed with our recommended agent using the quote we supply. Payment is made directly to the shipping company.

Alternatively, select ‘Pick up’ at checkout to:
• Collect the item yourself
• Use your own shipping agent from our UK showroom
• Or simply complete your purchase

Contact us for a quote

A small but perfectly formed Roman pale green glass ”balsamarium” or  “unguentarium” bottle from the 4th century A.D.

This elegant vessel or “cosmetic bottle” features a slender baluster body adorned with wrythen fluting—spiral ridges that enhance its visual appeal.

The unguentarium has an everted rim with a folded edge, both decorative and functional for reinforcing the lip. On either side of the vessel, delicate applied handles reflect the glassmaker's skill.

A pale green hue is achieved through the inclusion of iron oxide. The bottle has developed an iridescent patina over time.

Generally used to hold precious liquids like perfumes, oils, or medicines, this piece demonstrates the advanced glassmaking techniques of the Roman Empire and is a wonderful example of a luxury item from the period.

This is a typical late form of a balsamarium. Eastern Mediterranean in origin.

 

PROVENANCE

Christie’s - Antiquities Sale 14th April 2011 Lot 165

Private collection, France; acquired on the French art market, 1970s.

  • Width: 7 cm (2.76″)
  • Height: 14 cm (5.51″)
  • Depth: 4 cm (1.57″)