Though the Roman artisan created a vessel of utmost simplicity, the passage of time has added a glowing peacock patina to enhance its perfection. While we marvel at the fluid, graceful lines that no doubt pleased the ancient owner, we can also appreciate the radiant shimmer that is the gift of the centuries. It is one of the unique properties of glass that it gains beauty from the passage of time, while most everything else fades away. It is difficult to believe that the ancient craftsman did not deliberately intend for this vessel to achieve its present splendor in our time. It seems too exquisite to be a mere accident.