101B

A Rare Roman Silk and Linen Purse with Glass Bottles

Currency:USD Category:Antiquities Start Price:5,000.00 USD Estimated At:6,000.00 - 8,000.00 USD
A Rare Roman Silk and Linen Purse with Glass Bottles
Rome, ca 7th Century A.D. Two glass bottles skillfully sewn into a beautiful silk pouch lined with linen. The silk still retains much of its original colour, each side comprises two yellow and two pink triangular panels cross-stitched together. Each panel features four roses stitched in the contrasting colour. At the bottom of the pouch, the two of the original four silk tassels remain. The pouch was made to hold two glass bottles that are still in situ, presumably containing precious oils or perfume; the contents lost in antiquity.

Dimensions: Pouch Height: 7cm (2 1/2in); Width (Excluding Bottles): 7cm (2 1/2in).

Provenance: Private Arizona collection.

Condition report
Considering its frailty, the pouch is in remarkable condition overall. It is intact, with wear and discolouration primarily to the underside. Both rims to the glass containers within have been broken in antiquity. A rare treasure. A rare and delicate artifact,