ROMAN ALABASTER LABRUM
1st - 2nd centuries AD
diam. cm 108; height cm 22

A labrum is a large circular basin for cold water in the caldarium or hot room of a Roman bath complex; they were made of marble in order to maintain a cool water temperature. This specimen was carved from a single block of precious Egyptian "Cotognino" Alabaster. The flattened lip has the traces of three rectangular recesses for the insertion of metal clamps; on the outer edge of the hemispherical tub, is a rectangular recess "L" shaped, sculpted for the insertion of an additional metal clamp. On the bottom, presumably in a later period were engraved the letters BR. The condition of the present example indicates wear from water over a significant length of time; one restoration is on the lip. Close comparisons of "Forma II" shape specimens in A. Ambrogi, "Labra di età Romana in marmi Bianchi e colorati", Roma 2005, pp. 75-79.

Exhibited. Biennial of Art of Rome, 2014; TEFAF, Maastricht, 2015.

Provenance. Italian private collection, changes of ownership documented since 1980; currently in Milan and provided with export license.