- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
Peter Benchley Collection
Lot 284:
Description
Two ancient terracotta vessels representing utilitarian forms from the Mediterranean and Near Eastern regions. The first vessel is a fusiform balsamarium or unguentarium, likely of Roman origin. It features a wheel-thrown pear-shaped body constructed from a light buff to reddish-orange clay fabric. The exterior surface retains horizontal throwing marks and faint bands of pigment near the base, alongside significant mineral encrustations consistent with burial. The second vessel is a small juglet or pouring cup, possibly from the Levant or eastern Mediterranean provinces. It is characterized by a bulbous body, a hand-applied thick loop handle, a pinched pouring spout, and an irregular flared pedestal foot. The clay body of the juglet is a darker brownish-tan hue with a coarse texture and accumulated soil deposits. Unguentarium: 5″ H x 2 1/4″ diameter. Juglet: 3 1/4″ H x 2 1/4″ diameter.
From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.
Condition report:
The unguentarium neck and rim are missing, exhibiting an irregular jagged break at the top. The surface shows heavy weathering, pitting, and calcification throughout. The juglet handle has a significant transverse crack at the upper attachment point. The rim of the juglet is chipped and irregular, and the pedestal base has several small chips and an uneven edge.
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