Pair of Late Hellenistic Terracotta Unguentaria

Late Hellenistic Period, c. 200–100 BC, Salamis, Cyprus

A charming and finely made pair of spindle-shaped terracotta unguentaria, exemplary of Late Hellenistic ceramic artistry. These elegant vessels, one slightly taller than the other, were wheel-thrown with slender piriform bodies rising from low, flat bases, and finished with thick, rounded lips for ease of pouring.

Unguentaria—also known as balsamaria or lacrimaria—were versatile containers used to store precious oils, perfumes, and powdered substances. Their frequent discovery in graves suggests both a practical and ritualistic role, possibly holding offerings such as oil, wine, or incense for funerary rites or as gifts to the deceased.

Crafted from coarse orange clay with traces of a once-dark reddish-brown slip, the pair retains a pleasing interplay between robust material and refined form. Though partially restored, they remain elegant representatives of Hellenistic craftsmanship, offering both aesthetic appeal and a tangible connection to the daily and ceremonial life of ancient Cyprus.

Good condition. Age-related wear with chip in the rim and foot, nicks and scratches on surface. Restored neck. Rich deposits on interior and exterior. Surface encrusted in places. Size approx. 11,9cm x 4,3cm x 4,3cm & 8,6cm x 3,2cm x 3,2cm.

Provenance: Swedish private collection. Acquired in the early 1960’s.

For a similar examples see:

Unguentarium, Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities, Accession Number: 81.68 (https://teecemuseum.nz/collection-item/1238934/)

Terracotta spindle-shaped unguentarium (perfume bottle), The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 74.51.363 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/239948)

Spindle-shaped Unguentarium, Harvard Art Museums/Arthur M. Sackler Museum, Accession Number: 1964.51 (https://hvrd.art/o/290196)