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This charming flask was created in the shape of
a beautiful woman’s head. She has an expressive
face with fleshy cheeks and a soft smile. Her
eyes are open, and appear to stare outwards into
space, as if the artist captured her in the midst
of a daydream. She wears a saccos tied in her
wavy hair. Who is this mysterious woman? A
goddess perhaps, maybe Aphrodite? Or does
she represent a more earthly entity, like a
princess or a wealthy merchant’s wife?
Considering that this flask was created from a
mold and that there would have been multiple
examples in antiquity, it is safe to assume that
she must be a celebrated personality like a
goddess who would have been easily recognized
wherever the wares were exported.
The head flask form was a remarkably popular
innovation that is perhaps best represented by
later Roman glass examples, which were
probably influenced by terracotta predecessors
such as this work. The vessel would have once
contained precious substances like exotic
perfumes or fragrant oils. Since the work itself is
as valuable as the substances it once held inside,
it is safe to assume that this flask was a prized
possession of a member of the upper classes of
wealthy merchants who could afford such
luxuries. Today, this ancient vessel remains a
treasured item, prized for its striking beauty and
fascinating history.
- (X.0062)
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