Mosaic glass, very much like millefiori glass of the same period, was made via the same technique of fusing glass rods together. The canes of different colours were fused together and pulled, thinned and cut into cross sections. This produced varying patterns and colour formations, which would be formed into beads or applied as decoration on a variety of objects. Originating during the Hellenistic period, this technique spread into the Roman empire after the annexation of Ptolemaic Egypt, becoming popular amongst the Roman elites. However, following the decline of the empire in the 5th century AD, glass making died out in Western Europe.
Romano-Egyptian Floral Mosaic Glass Fragment
$369.08
A fine Romano-Egyptian mosaic glass fragment displaying a vibrant floral pattern. This piece of glass was likely part of a tile or a vessel. The opaque glass features a dark blue background containing a dispersion of white flowers with red centres enclosed in a blue circle and some less legible green and yellow motifs . The reverse shows layered gradients of blue, yellow, red and green glass canes fused together. The fragment is trapezoidal in shape with jagged edges. The piece comes with a customised stand for display.
The measurements listed below includes the stand. The piece itself weighs 16.3g and measures 3.8cm length and 3.4cm width.
Period: Ptolemaic Period–Roman Period
Provenance: Ex Gallery Mikazuki prior to 1984 property of a London gentleman.
Condition: Repaired. Minor encrustation to the surface.
In stock
| Weight | 56.3 g |
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| Dimensions | L 5 x W 2.7 x H 6.5 cm |
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