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 E. Mediterranean Glass Cylindrical Bottle

Roman, pale yellow glass free blown cylindrical bottle, Eastern Mediterranean, Ca. 3rd - 4th Century AD, with concave base, narrow neck and folded in and...

$495.00
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Roman Glass Intaglio of Soldier

Very rare and near-choice ancient Paste Glass Intaglio, ca 2nd to 3rd centuries AD. Mold-made in white, opalescent glass showing single standing male soldier, perhaps...

$295.00
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Ancient Roman Glass Kohl Vessel

Tall ancient Roman Glass Kohl Tube, ca. 2nd to 3rd centuries A.D. Used by the Roman elite to store precious makeup and fragrances. With bulbous base, flaring rim...

$1,395.00
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Roman Glass Jar with Ribbed Design

Ca 300 to 400 AD, made in Roman-occupied Syria or Lebanon. Ancient light green glass vessel with rolled rim and bulbous body, accented by numerous small ribs.

$395.00
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Late Roman Glass Amphora

Exceptional example! Ancient Roman Glass Amphora, ca. 3rd-6th century A.D. Single-handled vessel in miniature form with zigzag trailing around body; usually rendered in blue...

$595.00 $395.00 SOLD
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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.