Ca. 200 AD.
A glass amphoriskos, an exemplar of artistic finesse, exhibits a captivating inverted piriform contour, with a distinctive button base, a stately tubular neck, and an alluring flaring rim. Two gracefully fashioned handles unite the rim to the shoulders, imbuing the vessel with a sense of balance and harmony. Its surface is adorned with a mesmerizing iridescence, casting an ethereal play of colors that elevates its visual appeal to unparalleled heights. The alluring encrustations that embellish the amphoriskos further contribute to its allure. These encrustations, carefully developed over time, bear witness to the vessel's age and storied past. Amphoriskos, a diminutive version of the classic amphora, served as a versatile container in antiquity. Its primary function involved storing precious oils, perfumes, or other valuable liquids, making it an indispensable accoutrement in ancient households and ceremonial settings. The vessel's elegant design and captivating adornments not only manifested the ancient artisans' unparalleled skill but also reflected the esteemed status of its contents.
Size: L:170mm / W:80mm ; 170g
Provenance: Property of central London gallery; formerly acquired on the US art market; previously in the Estate of a North Carolina doctor.