147 - A ROMAN GREEN GLASS SPRINKLER FLASK, 3RD-4TH CENTURY AD

A ROMAN GREEN GLASS SPRINKLER FLASK, 3RD-4TH CENTURY AD Finely modeled, the globular body decorated with spiraling flutes, rising from a flattened base through rounded shoulders to a waisted neck and an everted rim. The glass displays a beautiful green hue with striking purple-blue iridescence. Provenance: Christie’s London, 6 May 1982, lot 38, sold for GBP 345 or approximately EUR 2,250 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing. A private collection in the United Kingdom, acquired from the above, thence by descent. Condition: Very good condition with expected wear, manufacturing irregularities, including minor fissures, signs of prolonged burial, encrustations, minuscule chips, and light surface scratches. Weight: 94.9 g Dimensions: 11.2 cm Literature comparison: Compare a closely related Roman glass sprinkler flask, dated to the late 3rd-4th century AD, 10.5 cm high, in the Michael C. Carlos Museum, Atlanta, object number 2018.010.388. Compare a closely related Syrian glass sprinkler flask, dated 300-400 AD, 10 cm high, in the Musée du Louvre, inventory number MND 1499. Compare a closely related Roman blown glass flask, dated to the 3rd century AD, 9.5 cm high, in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, object number 91.1.1267. Auction result comparison: Type: Closely related Auction: Christie’s New York, 12 April 2016, lot 113 Price: USD 30,000 or approx. EUR 37,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Description: A Roman glass snake thread sprinkler flask, circa late 2nd-early 3rd century AD Expert remark: Compare the closely related form, refined craftsmanship, and color of the glass. Note the ‘snake thread’ decorative motif and similar size (10 cm).