A fragment of gold glass, likely once the bottom of a drinking cup, features an exquisite portrait of the goddess Roma.
The gold glass piece from the 4th century depicts the goddess Roma, who embodies ancient Rome, and was uncovered during the construction of the Porta Metronia subway station in Rome, as reported by Smithsonian on February 14.
The gold glass fragment found during the construction of the Porta Metronia subway station. (Photo: Roberto Gualtieri).
“Gold glass has always been rare, and this new discovery is unparalleled,” stated Simona Morretta, an archaeologist from the special management agency of Rome. She also mentioned that experts had never previously found any gold glass pieces depicting Roma. The craftsmanship involved in creating it is particularly intricate.
Similar depictions of Roma are more commonly found on other materials. With cascading curly hair, a helmet, and a spear, Roma is portrayed as a strong, regal figure.
The gold glass fragment may have once been the bottom of a drinking cup. “We are unsure whether the cup was actually used to hold something or was merely decorative,” Morretta explained.
The elite regarded gold glass as a luxury item. This item features a design made of gold leaf, with both sides encased and preserved in clear glass. This technique dates back to the Hellenistic period.
The gold glass fragment at the Porta Metronia station is a precious find. “It was not discarded after breaking or being damaged. But since the glass cup could not be repaired, it is likely that the bottom was cut off and displayed on furniture or hung on the wall,” Morretta clarified.
Like other completed subway stations in Rome, Porta Metronia will have its own small museum, where the gold glass fragment will be exhibited alongside other artifacts discovered nearby. This site is expected to open in 2024.
“Excavations during the construction of the MetroC line have led to many remarkable archaeological discoveries. Among these is the bottom of a gold glass cup featuring the personification of Rome. The city’s millennia-old history never ceases to amaze and captivate the world,” Roberto Gualtieri, the mayor of Rome, wrote on social media Twitter along with an image of the gold glass fragment.
