Those Crafty Romans, Pt. III
One of the things that we would instantly recognize, were we to be transported back to the Roman Empire days, would be everyday objects made out of glass. Instead of clay or metal cups, glassware was quite well known, made and exported.
This elegant piece was uncovered at the ruins of Pompeii.
Thought to be originated by the Phoenicians, glass had become an everyday item for Rome.
From one of the outlying provinces (Britain), this damaged bowl showing gladiators was discovered near Hadrian's Wall.
In addition to complex designs, they also discovered the secrets of which minerals would add colour to the glass.
This item was actually a sprinkler head; water coming in through the top was released through little holes below. It is currently housed in the Corning Museum of Glass.
Romans glass making extended from 100BC to 500AD, learning and perfecting the technique.
There were even stories of a special glass that was developed, said to be unbreakable. In fact, it was supposed to be flexible and could be pushed back into shape if it was bent. No examples have been found though, legend according to Pliny says that the Emperor Tiberius feared that this new product would devalue the price of gold and so had the glassmaker put to death, taking it's secret with him.
This little translucent purple item was used as a perfume bottle.
Although much of the items shown here are usual containers as you would expect, the Romans also used glass for windows and mirrors, inserts in furniture, mosaic floor tiles, magnifying glasses, sculptures and jewelry.
