Candlestick unguentarium
Country
Cyprus
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Object detail
Description
Candlestick unguentarium. Blue blown glass. Depressed hemispherical body with flat base, pronounced flattened shoulder and neck constriction. Wide cylindrical neck tapering to splaying rim, folded outward, upward and inward and flattened to form broad mouth ring. Some iridescence and minor encrustation. (Webb, Jennifer M., 1997 "Corpus of Cypriote Antiquities", Studies in Mediterranean Archaeology, Vol. XX: p. 19)
Classification
DOMESTIC EQUIPMENT Containers vase
ARCHAEOLOGY Cypriot flask
ARCHAEOLOGY Cypriot flask
Measurements
H153 x D85mm
Media/Materials description
Glass
History and use
An 'unguentarium' is a small bottle used to hold ointments, perfumes, balms and other liquids for use in the toilet. These were used by both men and women, the contents applied after waking and after bathing. Popular scents included saffron, marjoram and rose. The material inside the glass may be debris, or fine remnants of the original content. These tall, cylindrical forms are known as 'candlestick' unguentarium, as they sometimes resemble early candlesticks. They may have a flat or round base, the neck may taper, and be with or without a constriction at the top of the neck, thought to allow for easier pouring of the precious contents. The glass is especially thin and fine.
Associated person
Registration number
H679
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