Roman Glass

Glass making was invented more than 2,000 years before the Roman Empire. Since approximately 1500 BCE colored glass was made in Egypt, Palestine and Syria (Mesopotamian Empire). As the Roman Empire became fully established and expanded, and they absorbed the technologies of the people they conquered, modified them and made them their own. “Roman” glass blowing techniques were further developed and spread. With the invention of the blowing pipe technique, glass making was completely modernized and glass could be freely shaped by hand. Under the reign of the first Emperor Augustus (1st century BC) glass-making became an important industry in the Roman Empire.

The terms “Roman” or “Roman-period” glass are used to describe glass items produced from 100BC to AD 400 within the boundaries of the Roman Empire – which included much of Europe, parts of North Africa, the Middle East especially Syria, and reached as far as present-day Afghanistan.

Roman glass was made by using sand, alkali, sodium carbonate, coloring agents (metals) and was formed with burning seaweed and lime. Roman glass was produced in a large range of colors, patterns and frequently complex techniques. Metals were also used to make many colorful variations. Copper was used to make turquoise to light blue, green, red or opaque red colored glass. Some addition of cobalt made the glass dark blue. Yellowish and purple glass was created by the use of manganese and antimony to make the glass opaque yellow or opaque white. Also iron was used to make a light blue, green, brown and black color.

Iridescence and opalescence on many ancient glass pieces is caused by the chemical decomposition of glass, the consequence of extended burial and the humidity and acid in the soil. Glass bottles were wide spread in the ancient Roman Empire and were used for oil, perfume, kohl and a whole range of other cosmetics, medicines and ointments.

To the modern-day collector of antique glass, form, the final natural glass color, condition, subject and, ultimately, the patina or iridescence/opalescence from burial, are the factors which determine aesthetic appeal, “beauty”, importance, and value. All the items featured in this collection have been carefully selected over a long period of time. All are in excellent condition, complete and with fine patina.