Roman - 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 Bracelets (pr) Dating to the Roman Period, ca. 100-300 A.D., a wonderful pair of small, ancient glass bracelets, for a child or a very small woman. Both are black/dark green with areas of... $65.00

Tall Ancient Roman Glass Flask Outstanding example! Tall ancient Roman Glass Flask, ca. 3rd-4th century A.D. Light blue glass vessel with bulbous body, tall neck extends gently outward, cobalt-blue trim. $1,795.00 $1,256.50

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

Roman Glass Cup - Rare and Delicate! Ancient Roman Glass Cup/Beaker, ca. 100 - 300 A.D. Of pale translucent green with vertically alternating surfaces which indent in the middle and extend at corners. $995.00 $500.00

Beautiful Roman Glass Jar Beautiful color and form! Ancient Roman Glass Jar, ca. 100 - 300 A.D. Pale translucent blue-green glass vessel with interesting small nodules evenly spaced about 1" ... $725.00

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.