The costly beauty of this vessel suggests that its vanished contents were rare and precious as well. At the height of the Roman Empire, it very likely held perfumes or oils brought from exotic lands. On its graceful chain, it might have hung in the scented chamber of a noble lady. Perhaps it was left as an offering in a temple or shrine, a lover's gift to win the favor of Venus or Astarte. Its elegance makes a timeless appeal to the senses. When we lift the stopper, as other hands did long ago, we can almost smell the fragrance of ancient flowers. - (Z.0415)
Antiquities Ancient Roman
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