Roman amphoriskos

Roman amphoriskos
ITEM: Amphoriskos
MATERIAL: Pottery
CULTURE: Roman, North Africa
PERIOD: 2nd - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 203 mm x 120 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Swedish private collection, bought in the 1970s and inherited there by the present owner

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The Roman North African amphoriskos is a type of small amphora, typically used for storing and transporting liquids such as oils, perfumes, and wines. Amphoriskoi, the diminutive form of amphorae, were common in the Roman Empire and are distinguished by their smaller size, usually ranging from 10 to 20 centimeters in height. These vessels were often made from glass or pottery and featured two handles for easy carrying. North Africa, particularly the regions that are part of modern-day Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya, was a significant production center for these containers during the Roman period, contributing to the widespread distribution of amphoriskoi across the Mediterranean.

The design and decoration of Roman North African amphoriskoi reflect the artistic and cultural influences of the region. These vessels often featured intricate patterns, such as geometric designs, floral motifs, or mythological scenes, created using techniques like mold-blowing or free-blowing for glass amphoriskoi, and painting or relief work for pottery. The craftsmanship of North African artisans was highly regarded, and their products were traded extensively, indicating both the aesthetic appeal and practical utility of these containers. The amphoriskos's design typically included a narrow neck, a bulbous body, and a small foot, optimizing it for pouring and preserving the contents.

In the context of daily life, Roman North African amphoriskoi were essential for storing precious liquids, which were integral to various aspects of Roman culture, including cooking, cosmetics, and religious rituals. The small size of the amphoriskos made it particularly suitable for personal use, such as holding perfumes or medicinal oils. In archaeological sites, these vessels are often found in domestic settings, tombs, and temples, underscoring their versatility and importance.

Measurement:

12 x 20.3 cm