Ancient Roman. Flask. 201 AD–400 AD. Syria. Glass, blown technique Iridescent GlassThe iridescent sheen on this flask, an artificially created effect sought after by 19th-century glassmaking innovators such as Louis Comfort Tiffany, was not actually intended by or known to their makers. Because of their association with luxury and precious oils and perfumes, these vessels were often buried with their owners in tombs, the chemical conditions of which, over time, have caused the surfaces to deteriorate, resulting in the shimmering, often opalescent, hues that appeal to the modern eye.

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Photo credit: © WBC ART / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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