Ancient Roman double balsamarium II

Eastern Mediterranean, circa 3rd–4th century AD

An unusual Late Roman double balsamarium, or double-bodied unguentarium, blown in pale green glass and retaining extensive ancient surface incrustation and iridescence.

The vessel is formed as two adjoining elongated tubular compartments, each intended to contain a small quantity of precious liquid. The twin bodies rise vertically to separate openings and are flanked by two tall applied loop handles, drawn upwards from the shoulders and attached beside the mouths. The handles retain particularly clear areas of the original translucent green glass.

Double balsamaria belong to a distinctive group of Roman cosmetic and toilet vessels. Their paired compartments allowed two different substances to be carried within a single vessel and are generally associated with perfumes, scented oils, cosmetics or medicinal preparations. Examples occur particularly in the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire, where glassmaking flourished throughout the Imperial and Late Roman periods.

The vessel was free-blown, with the two tubular containers joined together while hot and the handles subsequently applied. Its tall, narrow proportions and strongly articulated handles give the piece an unusually sculptural appearance.

Particularly notable is the extensive surviving archaeological surface. Long burial has produced thick mineral and earthy incrustations over much of the pale green glass, together with areas of silvery and blue-green iridescence. Where exposed, the original translucent green colour remains visible, especially along the handles.

The balsamarium survives in a fragmentary and restored condition, with ancient fractures and losses, particularly around the mouths and bodies, but retains its characteristic double form and both handles.

Date: Circa 3rd–4th century AD
Culture: Late Roman
Origin: Eastern Mediterranean / Middle East
Material: Translucent pale green glass
Technique: Free-blown with applied handles
Form: Double balsamarium / double-bodied unguentarium
Function: Probably for perfumes, scented oils, cosmetics or medicinal preparations
Condition: Fragmentary and restored, with fractures and losses; extensive ancient mineral incrustation and iridescence.