Candlestick unguentarium
Country
Cyprus
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Object detail
Description
Candlestick unguentarium. Pale yellow glass. Bell shaped body slightly convex base, constriction at neck base. Wide cylindrical neck with lop sided splaying rim, folded outward, upward and inward and flattened to form broad mouth-ring. Iridescence, frosting and encrustation on body and lower neck. (Webb, Jennifer M., 1997 "Corpus of Cypriote Antiquities", Studies in Mediterranean Archaeology, Vol. XX: p 20).
Classification
DOMESTIC EQUIPMENT Containers vase
ARCHAEOLOGY Cypriot flask
ARCHAEOLOGY Cypriot flask
Measurements
H155 x D70mm
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
H681
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