Technical Description
A rare Roman glass Hofheim cup produced during the 1st century. The slightly concave blown glass body is engraved with three horizontal bands and has a knocked-off, polished rim. This form is shown to be an early example with no additional incurved or everted lip as seen on slightly later vessels. Made from highly transparent glass with light amber hues, the vessel seems to have originally appeared quite colourless, this can be seen when the vessel is viewed under natural light.
Known as a Hofheim Cup due to the military site in Rhineland where over 30 examples were found, they’ve also been found in Britain, Italy and the western provinces of the Roman Empire.
Date & Origin
Roman, Western Empire, Early Imperial Era. 1st century CE, 14CE - 54CE.
Condition
Intact and very well preserved. Naturally flaking patches of iridescence, irridised surface and mild residual encrustation.
Dimensions
Height: 7.6cm
Diameter: 8.7cm
Documented examples
Richborough Fort Excavation: https://the-past.com/feature/gateway-to-britannia-reimagining-richborough-roman-fort/
Allaire Collection: https://ancientglass.wordpress.com/2020/06/19/gallo-roman-glass-hofheim-cup-2/
V&A: https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O2931/cup/
Princeton Art Museum: https://artmuseum.princeton.edu/collections/objects/19506
MET: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/248944
MET: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/239878
