Ointment jar. Rome, 2nd century AD.

Ointment jar. Rome, 2nd century AD.
Blown glass.
In very good state of preservation.
Certificate issued in 1970 is attached.
Measurements: 16 cm (height).
Small jug that served as an ointment jar, although with a somewhat liquorish element. It has a periform profile with a small base, a cautious neck, a mouth with a lip and an elegant handle. This last element corroborates the above-mentioned use. The decoration is simple and consists of applied glass cord. The slightly greenish tint reduces the transparency of the glass, but enhances its elegance. A piece from a Roman woman's dressing table.
The use of glass began to become widespread from the 1st century AD, following 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.