Circa 1st to 2nd Century AD. Step back in time with this exquisite Roman bluish glass pillar bowl, a testament to the sophisticated glassmaking artistry of the Roman Empire. This beautiful shallow bowl features a distinctive ribbed exterior body, a hallmark of the "pillar-moulded" technique that was highly popular during the early Imperial period.
This bowl was created using the pillar-molded technique, a common method for producing high-quality tableware in the Roman world before the widespread adoption of glassblowing. Molten glass was poured into a mold, which imparted the characteristic vertical ribs or "pillars" to the exterior. The bowl was then likely finished by "slumping" over a former in a kiln to achieve its final shallow, open shape. The rim would have been fire-polished, creating a smooth and finished edge. The natural bluish tint of the glass is inherent to the raw materials used, often derived from naturally occurring impurities in the sand, giving it a subtle and appealing hue without the use of artificial dyes.
This ancient artifact presents in remarkable condition for its age, retaining its original form and structural integrity. A truly captivating feature is the presence of wonderful iridescent deposits across its surface. This shimmering effect, known as iridescence, is a natural and highly prized result of centuries of burial, where minerals in the soil interact with the glass to create a beautiful, ethereal rainbow-like sheen. This natural patination enhances the bowl's aesthetic appeal and underscores its genuine antiquity.
This type of pillar bowl was highly fashionable across the Roman Empire, particularly during the 1st to 2nd Century CE. Such vessels were integral to daily life for the elite, used for serving food, holding small personal items, or simply as decorative objects. Originating from the skilled workshops of the Eastern Mediterranean, the heartland of Roman glass production, this piece reflects the widespread trade and cultural exchange that characterized the Roman world. Its elegant design and practical form speak to the sophisticated tastes of the era.
Dimensions:
Provenance:
This historically significant piece boasts a clear and distinguished provenance. It was Sold by Yacobs Gallery, London, England, in July 1998, to Howard Cohen, Maryland, USA. Its history of ownership by reputable collectors and galleries further confirms its authenticity and value.
Comparable Examples:
For similar examples of Roman glass pillar bowls, please refer to:
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Susan Auth, Ancient Glass at the Newark Museum, New Jersey, 1976.
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S. B. Matheson, Ancient Glass in the Yale University Art Gallery, Yale, 1980.
This Roman Blue Glass Pillar Bowl is not merely an antique; it is a tangible piece of history, offering a rare glimpse into the daily lives and artistic achievements of one of the world's greatest ancient civilizations.
