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Document Details :

Title: Römische Schönheitspflegemittel in Kugeln un Vögeln aus Glas
Author(s): HOTTENTOT, Wim , VAN LITH, Sophia M.E.
Journal: BABESCH
Volume: 81    Date: 2006   
Pages: 185-198
DOI: 10.2143/BAB.81.0.2014428

Abstract :
White and pink material from twelve Roman glass birds and spheres has been tested by various analytical methods. X-ray fluorescence proved the main anorganic component to be chalk, gypsum or a mixture of both. Binding agents could not be detected, despite detailed analytical examinations of nine samples. This means that the substance was a powder. Earlier chemical research is summed up and evaluated. Classical sources describing colouring matters and make-up were studied to try to determine the name and nature of the powder. High Performance Liquid Chromatography demonstrated the presence of madder (rubia) in six samples from globes.In three of them also henna could be detected. Both pigments are known to the ancient authors, but hardly as ingredients of beauty products. Finally the archaeological context in which the glass containers were found and the cultural context in which they supposedly functioned are described.


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