Vessel Appraisal

Alabaster Alabastron

This item is an Alabastron, a small antique vessel, likely used for holding perfumed oil, unguents, or kohl. It is exquisitely crafted from banded alabaster, a translucent, fine-grained variety of gypsum or calcite, which gives it a distinctive appearance. The primary color is a pale, creamy yellow to off-white, with prominent horizontal banding in varying shades of light brown and cream, indicating the natural stratification of the stone. The vessel has an elongated, slender piriform (pear-shaped) body that tapers gently towards a narrow, cylindrical neck and a flat, disc-like rim. The base is slightly flattened, allowing it to stand upright, and it is currently displayed on a modern clear acrylic stand, suggesting it is part of a museum exhibit or collection. The surface appears smooth and polished, reflecting light gently, indicating good craftsmanship in its carving and finishing. There are no immediately visible cracks, chips, or significant repairs, though as an ancient artifact, minor abrasions or patination are likely present, contributing to its authentic character. The alabaster's inherent qualities, such as its translucency and delicate veining, make this a high-quality piece. Its form is characteristic of ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern perfume or cosmetic containers, suggesting an age spanning from classical antiquity (e.g., Egyptian, Greek, Roman periods). The precise tooling marks are not discernible from the image, but the symmetry and smooth finish point to skilled hand-carving techniques.