Ca. 300 BC. A pottery unguentarium with its elegantly shaped and proportioned piriform body, that is both graceful and functional. The flat base provides stability, while the tubular neck and flaring opening allow for easy pouring and application of the contents. Hellenistic unguentaria were highly valued in ancient times and were used to contain precious unguents and perfumes. They were typically made from fine, high-quality clays, which were then fired at high temperatures to create a durable and non-porous surface. The resulting vessels were both beautiful and functional, and were prized by the elite for their beauty and utility. For a similar, see The British Museum, Museum number 1982,0729.18.Size: L:90mm / W:40mm ; 95gProvenance: Private London collection, B.A.; formerly in pre-2000 European collection.