Roman - Ancient Glass

Ancient Roman / Roman-period glass is used to describe glass items produced from 100 B.C. to 400 A.D. within the boundaries of the Roman Empire, which included much of Europe, parts of North Africa, the Middle East especially Syria, and reached as far as present-day Afghanistan. With the invention of the “blowing pipe” technique, glass-making was completely modernized, in that glass could be shaped by hand. Under the reign of the first Emperor Augustus (1st century B.C.) glass-making became an important industry in the Roman Empire.

Roman Glass Jar Lovely Iridescence Lovely single handled jar from the ancient Roman Empire, Eastern Mediterranean region, ca 200 to 400 AD. Light green glass with loop handle and flaring rim; entire ... $695.00 SOLD

Ancient Roman Glass Bowl - Huge! We originally thought about listing this as an Roman Glass "soup bowl," not because it was ever used for soup, but it certainly better describes the size of this ancient... $2,450.00 SOLD

Choice Roman Glass Unguent - Tall! Very heavy and solid ancient Roman Glass Unguent from the Roman manufacturing center in Lebanon or Syria, ca 200 to 400 A.D. Made of olive-green glass with areas of... $395.00

Very Fine Ancient Roman Glass Cup Ancient Glass Cup, Eastern Roman Empire, ca. 2nd to 3rd century A.D. Footed drinking vessel in bluish-green glass with everted rim. $595.00

Stunning Roman Glass Pitcher Large and very fine ancient glass pitcher from the eastern Roman empire, ca 2nd to 3rd centuries A.D. Made of light green glass with wide handle with deep inclusion of... $1,495.00

Ancient Roman glass was made by using sand, alkali, sodium carbonate, coloring agents (metals) and was formed with burning seaweed and lime. Iridescence on many ancient glass pieces is caused by the chemical decomposition of glass, from extended burial / humidity and acid in the soil. Glass bottles were widespread in the ancient Roman Empire and used for oil, perfume, kohl and a whole range of other cosmetics, medicines and ointments.