Carved from two fragments of dark green stone mottled with light patches (steatite probably), these two objects represent animals with highly stylized and abstract shapes.
This small cup, which belonged to a famous collection of the 19th century, was mold-blown in a transparent glass with an originally bluish tinge.
Used as tableware, these small cups served as drinking vessels but would have also been intended to contain various substances: sauces, spices, other condiments, etc. Produced mainly between the early Flavian period and the early 2nd century A.D., they exist in different versions that vary in the color, in the type of glass, or in details of the shape (shape of the lip, more or less rounded body, etc.).
This thick-walled bowl is outstanding both for its excellent state of preservation and for its perfect shape. It was molded and pressed in light green glass, while the finish was obtained by polishing and by grinding.