Ampoule-unguentary. Rome, first century A.D.

Ampoule-urnuary. Rome, 1st century AD.
Glass.
Strong and beautiful iridescence and inlay.
Missing on the body of 1.5 x 1 cm.
Certificate issued in 1969 is attached.
Measurements: 13 cm (height).
Blown glass ampoule-unguentary with a globular profile, spherical bottom, short neck and wide mouth with a broad lip. It was used to contain essences or perfumed ointments for women's body use and therefore belonged to a Roman lady's dressing table (gynaeceum). The surface shows a linear decoration in relief that was used to prevent the vessel from slipping in the hand, due to its slightly larger size and the oily contents.
Glass began to be widely used from the 1st century AD, after the discovery of the blowing technique around 40 BC in the eastern part of the Mediterranean coast. This technique was a major revolution and spread rapidly. Blown glass offered great advantages over other materials because it did not change the taste of the food it contained and was more impermeable than terracotta. In addition, the blowing technique made it possible to produce pieces in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and also to produce them more quickly. On the other hand, glass pieces were easier to clean, so it soon became the favourite material for domestic use.