Ointment jar; Rome, 2nd–3rd centuries

Ointment jar; Rome, 2nd–3rd centuries.
Glass.
In good condition.
Measurements: 14 x 7 cm.
Roman ointment jar made of colorless air-blown glass, with a low, ovoid body and a long, narrow neck, ending in a flat rim that allows for the dispensing of perfumed oil and its application to the skin.
The use of glass became widespread starting in the 1st century AD, following the discovery of the glassblowing technique around 40 BC on the eastern Mediterranean coast. This technique was a major revolution and spread rapidly. Blown glass offered significant advantages over other materials because it did not alter the taste of the food it contained and was more impermeable than terracotta. Furthermore, the glassblowing technique allowed for the production of pieces in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, as well as faster production. Furthermore, glass pieces were easier to clean, so it soon became the preferred material for household use.