Ancient Red Terracotta Flask, Roman North Africa (3182BAC) SPECIAL PRICE

Description

Many types of fine African red slipped wares (ARS) were made in ceramic centers in the Roman North Africa territory called Africa Proconsular and distributed across the Mediterranean and North Africa during the 2^nd to 6^th centuries A.D. This elegant terracotta piriform (pear shaped) flask is an unguentarium (a “tears vessel”) that contained healing salves, oils, ointments, and other precious items. The thin walled, finely shaped body rests on a flared, small and round foot and has a flared rim with a wide lip and a graceful handle. The three applied raised designs were taken from Egyptian, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures.  The lion symbolizes strength and power; palm leaves victory; and the rosette Ishtar, the Mesopotamian goddess of love, beauty, war and justice. Made for wealthy Romans, vessels like this were often found at gravesites filled with perfume or oil for the deceased for the afterlife. Although this piece was recovered in eight fairly large pieces, large areas were recovered intact and the fragments restored. The repairs are well done, although the joins are clearly visible as can be seen in our photos. There are some expected discolorations and fading Despite these imperfections, the goblet is a beautiful and elegant work of art. and well preserved considering its age. The low numbers produced, its very thin walls and its burial made its survival rare in any form.

Sources

Kevin Green, Interpreting the Past, Roman Pottery, Berkeley and Los Angeles, University of California Press, 1992.

Potsherd Atlas of Roman Pottery, North African Red Slip Ware, www/potsherd.net