Roman Empire Glass “The Golden Tears of Antiquity” — Multicoloured Beautiful Iridescent Glass Unguentarium - 11 cm (No reserve price)

This Roman Empire multicoloured iridescent glass unguentarium, often poetically called “The Golden Tears of Antiquity,” is a small vessel used in antiquity to store precious perfumes, oils, or cosmetics. Measuring about 11 cm, such containers showcase the remarkable Roman glassmakers' ability to produce thin-walled, vibrantly colored, and iridescent glass, often with layered hues that shimmer in light. Unguentaria were common in Roman daily life and burial customs, reflecting both practical use and aesthetic refinement. The iridescence seen on many ancient glass pieces results from chemical weathering over centuries, adding to their allure. This artifact offers insight into Roman luxury items, trade in perfumery, and technological achievements in glass production.